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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | April 22, 2024 02:39 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Christine M. Tartaglione |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Mental Health Awareness Month |
| I will soon introduce a resolution designating May 2024 as “Mental Health Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania. There are currently millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 5 American adults live with a mental illness. Additionally, more than 1 in 5 of every US adolescent (aged 13-18) is either currently dealing with or at some point suffered from a seriously debilitating mental illness. Furthermore, about 5% of US adults live with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. Mental illness does not discriminate. It can change over time and happen to anybody from any background although common risk factors include adverse child experiences, trauma, history of abuse, substance use, chronic medical conditions, and other social and biological factors. Not only do mental health conditions create daily social-emotional challenges for those that live with them but also play an inexorable role in physical health. For example, depression increases the risk for many types of physical health problems, particularly long-lasting conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Study after study shows that mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health. And while public awareness of mental health has increased exponentially in the last decade, the way our public health networks and institutions, businesses, schools, and governments respond to our growing understanding of mental health still leaves much room for improvement. In turn, since its inception in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been a time for the public and our institutions to address mental health. Organizations such as the federal Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the National Institute of Mental Health, the American Hospital Association, and many others recognize this month each year reflecting a national movement dedicated to eradicating stigma, extending support, fostering public education, and advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness. Please consider supporting the growing mental health movement by recognizing May 2024 as “Mental Health Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania. |
Introduced as SR282