2023-05-02 IV. A. Proclamation - Mental Health & Prevention Month .sw.� " * _
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Office of the Mayor
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WHEREAS, mental health and substance use conditions affect individuals, families, and communities across
Okeechobee County, Florida, and the Nation; and
WHEREAS, good mental health is a key component in a child's healthy development. Children's Mental Health `?
VVeek and National Prevention Week provides the opportunity to focus on these important matters, while
celebrating the accomplishments of children and families affected by mental health concerns and
,`. substance use. It is imperative that a visible, united effort by community members be launched and
sustained to prevent substance use and promote mental wellness; and '
`',''' WHEREAS, it is important that youth, their families, and communities learn about the warning signs of mental
health disorders, substance use, and where to obtain necessary assistance and services. Open dialogue is
an essential component to fight stigma and encourage those who might benefit from services to seek help; E�
and
WHEREAS, there is a need for access to comprehensive services that are family-driven, youth guided, culturally
and linguistically competent, and community based. Individuals would also benefit from the integration of
I behavioral health in primary care, education, and child welfare; and j
' WHEREAS, all citizens, agencies, and organizations interested in advancing innovative strategies addressing
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children's behavioral health including prevention can unite to promote effective services. Promoting mental y,
health and wellness leads to higher overall productivity, better educational outcomes, lower crime rates, '-t!
stronger economies, lower health care costs, improved family life, improved quality of life and increased
lifespan. Studies show that the effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are felt by people ,•
i regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status; and
WHEREAS, the City of Okeechobee recognizes the impact of awareness, education, access to services and the
{ importance of mental health and well-being to an individual's success and supports the implementation of r`
_ trauma informed approaches through the systems of care. •.9
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NOW THEREFORE, I, Dowling R. Watford, Jr., by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of -
Okeechobee, Florida, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2023 as "Mental Health Awareness Month"
in the City of Okeechobee.
ti: /, IN WITNESS WHEREOF, on May 2, 2023, I have
set my hand and caused this seal to be a ix
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i #4Dowling R. , afford,Jr.,Mayor
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!. ATTEST: l:
Lane Gamiotea,CMC,City Clerk
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