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62 <br />Proclamation <br />Recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month <br />May 2023 <br />-Whereas, mental health is key to overall wellness, as mental health influences decision <br />making, behavior, and consequently, physical health; and <br />-Whereas, over half of adults living with mental health illnesses do not seek treatment; and <br />-Whereas, a growing number of youth in the United States live with depression, more than <br />16% of young people ages 12-17 have experienced major depression, with rates of sadness and <br />hopelessness among teenagers reaching their highest point in a decade; and <br />-Whereas, in 2023, more than 11 % of children and adults continue to lack adequate medical <br />insurance coverage for essential mental health services, and Florida is ranked 46th out of 50 states <br />with access to mental health care; and <br />-Whereas, social stigma, financial barriers, and limited awareness are the primary obstacles <br />to getting help and, as community leaders, we must prepare for an increase in demand on services <br />through education, outreach, and ever greater access to care to ensure our community's overall <br />health; and <br />-Whereas, it is the duty of each and every one of us to provide continued and consistent <br />access to mental health care resources; and <br />-Whereas, the Commissioners of Indian River County strive to promote a community who <br />supports mental wellness, including greater access to treatment, increasing educational tools and <br />resources for our citizens, and continually supporting those citizens with mental health opportunities. <br />Naw, therefore, be it procCaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of <br />Indian River County, FCor%da, that the Board recognizes May 2023 as Mental Health <br />Awareness Month. <br />Adopted this 16th day of May, 2023. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, <br />INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA <br />Joseph H. Earman, Chairman <br />Susan Adams, Vice Chairman <br />Joseph E. Flescher <br />Deryl Loar <br />Laura Moss <br />