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1 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT <br /> Meeting Date: May 4, 2021 <br /> Action Agenda <br /> Item No. 4-b <br /> SUBJECT: Mental Health Awareness Month Proclamation <br /> DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners <br /> ATTACHMENT (S): INFORMATION CONTACT: <br /> Proclamation Laura Jensen, 245-2130 <br /> PURPOSE: To approve a proclamation recognizing May 2021 as Mental Health Awareness <br /> Month in Orange County. <br /> BACKGROUND: Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in the U.S. since 1949. <br /> Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. Even though <br /> mental health conditions are common and treatable like physical health conditions, many people <br /> are still afraid to talk about them due to the stigma associated with mental illness. In May, <br /> mental health organizations and affiliates will raise awareness with community events and <br /> messages of hope to highlight the importance of mental health. <br /> The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the mental health of people of all ages. In <br /> 2020, area mental health partners saw fewer patients in-person, but experienced significantly <br /> more telehealth appointments. As social distancing requirements relaxed in the first quarter of <br /> 2021, providers saw in-person mental health visits rise to pre-pandemic levels. Now, more than <br /> ever, it is critical to reduce the stigma around mental health struggles and encourage people to <br /> seek help. <br /> The Board of Commissioners is asked to proclaim May 2021 as "Mental Health Awareness <br /> Month" in Orange County to shine a light on mental illness and the need for long-term <br /> improvements in our mental health care system and improved access to care so no one feels <br /> alone. <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with consideration of the <br /> proclamation. <br /> SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goal is applicable to <br /> this item: <br /> • GOAL: CREATE A SAFE COMMUNITY <br /> The reduction of risks from vehicle/traffic accidents, childhood and senior injuries, gang <br /> activity, substance abuse and domestic violence. <br />