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President Mori Signs Proclamation for World Mental Health Day 2009

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): October 9, 2009 - Today, President Mori signed a proclamation on World Mental Health Day. The proclamation says:

WHEREAS, 450 million individuals around the world are living with a mental illness that could benefit from early diagnosis and appropriate and adequate treatment and support;

WHEREAS, fewer than one-half of those who could benefit from early diagnosis and treatment for a mental illness receive any treatment or care at all;

WHEREAS, mental illness such as anxiety disorders, major depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, and schizophrenia, when not appropriately diagnosed and treated, are leading causes of poor work performance, family disruption, and contribute greatly to the global burden of disease;

WHEREAS, these startling health statistics and the human toll they represent have traditionally received too little attention and concern by the general public, the general healthcare system, and elected and appointed public policy makers, resulting in inadequate priority being given these disorders;

AND WHEREAS, the World Federation for Mental Health has designated the theme for World Mental Health Day 2009 as "Mental Health in Primary Care: Enhancing Treatment and Promoting Mental Health," and urges increased availability of appropriate and equitable mental health services through primary healthcare services and facilities for those experiencing serious mental health problems and disorders;

THEREFORE, I, Manny Mori, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM 10 OCTOBER 2009 AS WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY IN THE FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA and urge all governmental and non-governmental mental health organizations and agencies to work in concert with elected and appointed public officials to increase public awareness about, and acceptance of, mental illnesses and the people living with these disorders; promote improved public policies to enhance diagnosis, treatment, and support services for those who need them through the primary healthcare system; and to reduce the persistent stigma and discrimination that too often serve as barriers for people seeking services and supports available to them.

I further urge all citizens to join and support the local, state, and national non-governmental organizations that are working to make mental health a priority in communities throughout our nation.

Together, we will all make a difference and promote mentally healthy communities and citizens!