[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 127, 113th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8969--APR. 30, 2013

Proclamation 8969 of April 30, 2013

National Mental Health Awareness Month, 2013
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Today, tens of millions of Americans are living with the burden of a
mental health problem. They shoulder conditions like depression and
anxiety, post-traumatic stress and bipolar disorder--debilitating
illnesses that can strain every part of a person's life. And even though
help is out there, less than half of children and adults with
diagnosable mental health problems receive treatment. During National
Mental Health Awareness Month, we shine a light on these issues, stand
with men and women in need, and redouble our efforts to address mental
health problems in America.
For many, getting help starts with a conversation. People who believe
they may be suffering from a mental health condition should talk about
it with someone they trust and consult a health care provider. As a
Nation, it is up to all of us to know the signs of mental health issues
and lend a hand to those who are struggling. Shame and stigma too often
leave people feeling like there is no place to turn. We need to make
sure they know that asking for help is not a sign of weakness--it is a
sign of strength. To find treatment services nearby, call 1-800-662-
HELP. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers immediate
assistance for all Americans, including service members and veterans, at
1-800-273-TALK.
Our commitment cannot end there. We must ensure people have access to
the care they need--which is why the Affordable Care Act will expand
mental health and substance use disorder benefits and Federal parity
protections for 62 million Americans. For the first time, the health
care law will prevent insurers from denying coverage because of a pre-
existing condition. The Act already requires new health plans to cover
recommended preventive services like depression screening and behavioral
assessments for children at no extra cost to patients.
My Administration will keep building on those achievements. Earlier this
year, I was proud to launch the BRAIN Initiative--a new partnership
between government, scientists, and leaders in the private sector to
invest in research that could unlock new treatments for mental illness
and drive growth throughout our economy. We have made unprecedented
commitments to improving mental health care for veterans suffering from
traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. And we have
proposed new funding for mental health programs that will help teachers
and other adults recognize the signs of mental illness in children,
improve mental health outcomes for young people, and train 5,000 more
mental health professionals to serve our youth.



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Mental health problems remain a serious public health concern, but
together, our Nation is making progress. This month, I encourage all
Americans to advance this important work by raising awareness about
mental health and lending strength to all who need it.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2013 as National
Mental Health Awareness Month. I call upon citizens, government
agencies, organizations, health care providers, and research
institutions to raise mental health awareness and continue helping
Americans live longer, healthier lives.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
seventh.
BARACK OBAMA