H.R. No. 1243

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, In conjunction with National Children's Mental Health Awareness Week, mental health professionals and others are gathering at the Capitol on May 5, 2009, to promote positive mental health, well-being, and social development for all children and youth; and

WHEREAS, The National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health is encouraging people to wear green ribbons throughout the week to raise awareness of mental health needs among young people; and

WHEREAS, Mental health disorders are more common in children and adolescents than many realize, with studies showing that at least one in five have a mental health disorder and at least one in 10 have a serious emotional disturbance; the range of diagnosable emotional, behavioral, and mental disorders includes depression, attention deficit disorder, and anxiety, conduct, and eating disorders; and

WHEREAS, Children and adolescents with mental health issues need to get help as soon as possible; when left untreated, mental health issues can lead to school failure, family conflicts, drug abuse, violence, and even suicide; appropriate treatment may include counseling, medical care, residential care, day treatment, education services, rights protection, transportation, or case management; and

WHEREAS, Mental health disorders in children are real and painful, but with the help of families and communities working together, children with mental health needs can thrive; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas Legislature hereby recognize May 5, 2009, as Children's Mental Health Awareness Day and encourage all Texans to learn more about the mental health needs of children and youth.

Howard of Travis

______________________________ Speaker of the House

I certify that H.R. No. 1243 was adopted by the House on May 5, 2009, by a non-record vote.

______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House