Childrens Mental Health Awareness Week Proclamation - Signed — File 213718

Proclamation Children’s Mental Health Week May 1st – May 7th, 2022 City of Somerville, Massachusetts Whereas, good mental health is a key component in a child’s healthy development and Children’s Mental Health Week provides the opportunity to focus on this important matter, while celebrating the accomplishments of children and families affected by mental health concerns; and Whereas, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, one in five children is diagnosed with a mental health condition: and Whereas, research has shown early identification and appropriate treatment of mental health disorders among children and adolescents provide them better opportunities to lead full and productive lives; and Whereas, children and youth with mental health problems and their families benefit from access to timely services and supports that are family-driven, youth-guided and culturally appropriate; they also benefit from the integration of behavioral health in primary care, education, and child welfare; and Whereas, it is important that children and adolescents, along with their families and communities, learn about warning signs of mental health disorder and where to obtain necessary assistance and treatment; and Whereas, the involvement and partnership of family members in the care and treatment of children and youth is essential to positive outcomes; and Whereas, obtaining a full and accurate diagnosis of a child requires gathering information from diverse sources, including the family, school and others involved with the child; and Whereas, Children's Mental Health Week was developed by families of children with emotional, behavioral and mental health needs, to focus on the needs of their children and families; in celebrating this year's theme: "Action Changes Things" it is fitting to increase public awareness among all Massachusetts citizens of this important issue; and NOW THEREFORE, I, Katjana Ballantyne, Mayor of the City of Somerville, do hereby proclaim that May 1st – 7th, 2022 as Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. ____________________________________ KATJANA BALLANTYNE MAYOR