The New York State Senate

K667

LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim May 2017, as Borderline Personality Disorder Awareness Month in
the State of New York

WHEREAS, Since 2008, May has been nationally recognized as Borderline
Personality Disorder Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, According to the National Institute of Health, the condition
affects an estimated 5.9% of adults, approximately 14 million Americans;
and
WHEREAS, Despite its prevalence, borderline personality disorder is
still under-recognized, misunderstood, and highly stigmatized; and
WHEREAS, Borderline personality disorder is a serious psychological
condition marked by severe difficulty in regulating emotions; and
WHEREAS, Borderline personality disorder can cause individuals to
experience instability in self-image, behavior, and functioning and
struggle with volatile interpersonal relationships, impulsivity, chronic
feelings of emptiness, and intense fear of abandonment; and
WHEREAS, Individuals with borderline personality disorder who do not
receive treatment are more likely to develop additional chronic medical
conditions; and
WHEREAS, Borderline personality disorder is associated with high rates
of self-harm and suicidal thoughts and actions; and
WHEREAS, Although today there are several evidence-based treatments
available which can significantly reduce symptoms of borderline person-
ality disorder, issues of under-diagnosis, misperceptions, and social
stigma continue to delay and prevent recovery for many individuals; and
WHEREAS, Greater education among family members, health care profes-
sionals, and the general public is critical to eliminating barriers to
care and improving outcomes for patients with borderline personality
disorder; and
WHEREAS, New Yorkers living with borderline personality disorder
deserve compassion and support, and increasing awareness is key to
addressing this public health issue and enabling those affected to live
healthy, fulfilling lives; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 2017, as Borderline
Personality Disorder Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.