WHEREAS, promoting the health and wellness of all Nevadans remains a critical objective of state government and includes efforts to enhance mental and behavioral health care and access to resources that assist Nevadans with mental or behavioral health needs; and

WHEREAS, it is essential to address the mental health needs of Nevada's vulnerable citizens who may lack a voice to advocate on their behalf or who face obstacles to care due to stigma that may be associated with mental health issues; and

WHEREAS, nearly 20% of children and young people ages 3-17 in the United States have a mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorder and 1 in 5 adolescents aged 12 to 17 have had a major depressive episode in the past year; and

WHEREAS, the number of deaths by suicide increased by 8% from 2011 to 2022 and suicide is the second leading cause of death amongst people aged 10 - 34 and the 11th leading cause of death in the United States; and

WHEREAS, long delays often occur between the time symptoms first appear and when individuals get help, and early identification and treatment can make a difference in the successful management of mental illness and recovery; and

WHEREAS, early diagnosis and treatment of mental and behavioral health disorders are critical components to the state's ongoing efforts to address mental health needs, and Nevada is home to thousands of dedicated mental health professionals, care providers, public agency employees, service organizations, and community advocates who are making a profound difference in the lives of those with mental health need; and

WHEREAS, the State of Nevada is committed to meeting the needs of those living with mental and behavioral health disorders, and supports initiatives that help to raise broader awareness regarding mental and behavioral health issues, with appreciation for all who are working to improve research and treatment options in the area of mental health; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOE LOMBARDO, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim the month of May2024 as

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS IN NEVADA