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PROCLAMATION
Whereas: the mental health of every individual is essential to the emotional and economic prosperity of families,
neighborhoods,and businesses in Lexington,Massachusetts;and
Whereas: mental health is a key component of every person's overall physical health and emotional well-being;and
Whereas: mental illness affects people of all and ages,races,genders,abilities,ethnicities,sexual orientations,
socioeconomic statuses,or religions in Lexington,Massachusetts;and
Whereas: 18.07%of American adults are experiencing a mental illness,equivalent to 44 million people,and of that
amount 4.13%are experiencing a severe mental illness;and
Whereas: approximately one-half of chronic mental illness begins by the age of 14 and three-quarters by age 24;and
Whereas: untreated mental illness leads to higher rates of emergency department visits,hospitalizations,school drop-
outs,and suicides;and
Whereas: suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States and the 2nd leading cause among young adults,
and 90%of people who die by suicide have an underlying mental illness;and
Whereas: feelings of personal shame and fears of social stigma and discrimination prevent many living with mental
illness from seeking help;and
Whereas: stigma can be reduced by increasing the awareness of mental illness and available resources for those suffering
from mental health conditions;and
Whereas: we strive to create a Lexington that supports mental wellness by increasing access to treatment,educating
residents about mental wellness and mental illness,and supporting our loved ones as they seek to improve their
mental health;and
Whereas: greater public awareness about mental wellness can positively transform attitudes about,and towards,people
with mental illness,making it easier for our citizens to seek help.
NOW, THEREFORE, WE, THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN of the Town of Lexington,Massachusetts,do hereby proclaim
October 6 through 12,2019 as
Mental Illness Awareness Week
in the Town of Lexington to shine a light on mental illness,fight stigma,provide support,educate the public and advocate for
equal care.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have set our hands and caused the seal of Lexington to be affixed herewith on the 23rd of
September 2019.
DOUG4MJCENTE,CHAIRMAN JOSEP O
SUZANNE E.BARRY DILL I. tl
M D.S DEE