New York K 314: Memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 2021, as Mental Health Month in the State of New York

Bill Text

Assembly Resolution No. 314
M. of A. GuntherBY:
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaimMEMORIALIZING
May 2021, as Mental Health Month in the State of New
York
The State of New York takes great pride in participating inWHEREAS,
events designed to raise awareness of serious health issues; and
It is the sense of this Legislative Body to memorializeWHEREAS,
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 2021, as Mental Health Month in
the State of New York; and
Mental Health Month (MHM) began in 1949, to raise awarenessWHEREAS,
of mental health conditions and mental wellness for all; and
Mental illness is common, yet many never get help; 1 in 5WHEREAS,
U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, yet only 43 percent of
people with a mental illness receive treatment; furthermore, for those
who ultimately do get help, the average delay in getting treatment is 11
years from the first onset of symptoms; and
The first signs and symptoms of mental health problems,WHEREAS,
some of which develop to the point of becoming diagnosable mental
illness begin on average, at about 14 years of age; and
Untreated mental illness has serious consequences; this isWHEREAS,
a serious problem because unrecognized, untreated and late treated
mental illness elevates the risk of mental health crises such as suicide
and self-injury, diminishes prospects for recovery and contributes to
substance abuse and other damaging negative coping behaviors; and
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for agesWHEREAS,
10-34, and the overall suicide rate in the U.S. has increased by 31
percent since 2001; and
More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than fromWHEREAS,
cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia,
influenza, and chronic lung disease combined; and
Many adults miss or dismiss these early signs and symptomsWHEREAS,
and young people are even less likely to recognize or understand what is
happening to them; and even when there is some recognition that a young
person is struggling, stigma often causes people to ignore, dismiss or
rationalize a child's true need for help; the result is often as tragic
as it is unnecessary; and
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated pre-existing andWHEREAS,
underlying mental illness, with 50 percent of Americans reporting a
negative impact on their mental health; and
In these trying times, it is more imperative than ever toWHEREAS,

recognize and destigmatize mental illness; and
There must be greater public awareness of mental illnessWHEREAS,
and suicide, and more must be done at the local, State and national
levels to respond to the rise in mental health concerns during and after
this crisis; now, therefore, be it
That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations toRESOLVED,
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May of 2021, as Mental
Health Month in the State of New York; and be it further
That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, beRESOLVED,
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.