[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 129, 114th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9317 of September 9, 2015

World Suicide Prevention Day, 2015

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

All people deserve the opportunity to live healthy, rewarding lives. No
American should have their potential limited, have their life cut short,
or be deprived of their fullest measure of happiness because they do not
have the mental health support they need. On World Suicide Prevention
Day, we reaffirm our belief that mental health is an essential part of
overall health, and together, we renew our commitment to supporting and
empowering all Americans to seek the care they need.
Suicide is often related to serious depression, substance use disorders,
and other mental health conditions. That is why recognizing severe
psychological distress and ensuring access to the care and services
needed to diagnose and treat mental illness are crucial to our efforts
to prevent suicide. Individuals can also experience emotional and mental
health crises in response to a wide range of situations--from
difficulties in personal relationships to the loss of a job to bullying
at school. And for some of our Nation's veterans and military service
members, these challenges are compounded by the invisible wounds of war.
Tragically, these crises can sometimes involve thoughts of suicide--and
we must do more to support those suffering.
All Americans can take part in promoting mental well-being and
preventing suicide. Everyone can contribute to a culture where
individuals are supported and accepted for who they are--no matter what
they look like, who they love, or what challenges they face--and where
it is okay to ask for help.We can do more to recognize the signs of
mental health issues early and encourage those in need to reach out for
support. And we must remind our loved ones that seeking treatment is not
a sign of weakness; it is a sign of strength. If you or someone you know
is in need of help, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers
immediate assistance for all Americans at 1-800-273-TALK. Veterans,
service members, and their loved ones can call this number to reach the
Veterans Crisis Line, and they can also send a text message to 838255.
The Affordable Care Act extends mental health and substance use disorder
benefits and parity protections to over 60 million Americans, helping
men and women across our country access critical care. Protections under
the health care law prohibit insurers from denying coverage because of
pre-existing conditions, like a diagnosis of mental illness, and require
most insurance plans to cover recommended preventive services without
copays, including behavioral assessments for children and depression
screenings.
In February, I was proud to sign the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for
American Veterans Act to help fill serious gaps in serving veterans with
post-traumatic stress and other illnesses. This law builds upon our
ongoing efforts to end the tragedy of suicide among our troops and
veterans. Last year, I announced 19 Executive actions to make it easier
for service members and veterans to access the care they need when they
need it, and our Government has focused additional resources on

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mental health services, including increasing the number of mental health
providers at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
My Administration is also committed to doing all we can to empower those
facing challenges and hardship. We are dedicated to combating bullying,
harassment, and discrimination in our schools and communities. We are
doing more to guarantee all veterans and members of our Armed Forces--as
well as their families--get the help they deserve while they are serving
our Nation, as they transition to civilian life, and long after they
have returned home. And across the Federal Government, we are working to
ensure all Americans are supported in times of crisis.
Suicide prevention is the responsibility of all people. One small act--
the decision to reach out to your neighbor, offer support to a friend,
or encourage a veteran in need to seek help--can make a difference. It
can help energize a national conversation and a changing attitude across
America. If you are hurting, know this: You are not forgotten. You are
never alone. Your country is here for you, and help is available. As we
pause to raise awareness of the importance of suicide prevention, let us
remember all those we have lost and the loved ones they left behind. As
one people, we stand with all who struggle with mental illness, and we
continue our work to prevent this heartbreak in our communities.
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 September 10, 2015, as
World Suicide Prevention Day. I call upon citizens, government agencies,
organizations, health care providers, and research institutions to raise
awareness of the mental health resources and support services available
in their communities and encourage all those in need to seek the care
and treatment necessary for a long and healthy life.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
fortieth.
BARACK OBAMA