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Pennsylvania House of Representatives
05/30/2024 02:10 AM
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20230&cosponId=40378
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House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted: March 31, 2023 03:46 PM
From: Representative Michael H. Schlossberg and Rep. Jennifer O'Mara, Rep. James B. Struzzi, II, Rep. Kathleen C. Tomlinson
To: All House members
Subject: Designating May 2023 as "Mental Health Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania.
 
As Pennsylvanians continue to pick up the pieces from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, many are still struggling with their overall mental health and continue to battle stigma and discrimination.

Mental illnesses, which can affect individuals of any race, religion, economic status, or age, are biologically based brain disorders. These disorders cannot be overcome through willpower and are not related to a person's character or intelligence.  While mental illness can affect any age group, it usually strikes individuals in the prime of their lives, often during adolescence and young adulthood.

People with mental illnesses have the same needs and should be guaranteed the same rights as all Americans, but sadly these individuals frequently experience discrimination in education, employment, and housing.  In addition, affected individuals too often live in fear and embarrassment about their mental health struggles. That is why we plan to introduce legislation designating May 2023 as “Mental Health Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania. 
 
Proper identification and treatment of mental illnesses, including peer and familial support, are proven to be effective and are vitally important to assist individuals in leading full, productive lives.  Further, mental health is critical to the overall well-being of individuals, families, communities, and businesses.
 
Therefore, please join us in increasing awareness around mental health and supporting the 57 million adults living with a mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder in the United States by designating the month of May 2023 as “Mental Health Awareness Month” in our Commonwealth.


Introduced as HR90