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4 <br /> WHEREAS, early identification and treatment can make a difference in successful navigation <br /> and management of mental illness and recovery; and <br /> WHEREAS, stigma and the resulting discrimination is a primary obstacle to early identification <br /> and effective treatment of individuals with mental illness and the ability to recover to lead full, <br /> productive lives; and <br /> WHEREAS, every person and community can help end the silence and stigma surrounding <br /> mental illness that for too long has made people feel isolated, alone and discouraged people <br /> from getting help; and <br /> WHEREAS, Orange County remains engaged in the promise to address the challenges facing <br /> people with mental illness; and <br /> WHEREAS, people with lived experience of mental illness and/or substance use disorders get <br /> better, live in recovery, and provide invaluable knowledge of how to improve and transform <br /> systems of care, and <br /> WHEREAS, through public education and working together to raise awareness, we can help <br /> improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness, and <br /> WHEREAS, Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to increase public understanding <br /> of the importance of mental health and to promote the identification and treatment of mental <br /> illness; <br /> NOW THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby recognize <br /> May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Orange County and shine a light on mental <br /> health and the need for long-term improvements in our mental health care system and improved <br /> access to care so no one feels alone. <br /> This the 6t" day of May, 2025. <br /> Jamezetta Bedford, Chair <br /> Orange County Board of Commissioners <br /> A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Fowler, to <br /> approve the proclamation designating May 2025 as "Mental Health Awareness Month" in <br /> Orange County and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation. <br /> VOTE: UNANIMOUS <br /> Chair Bedford encouraged anyone who feels isolated and alone to reach out to the <br /> county for assistance. <br /> Commissioner Fowler said she hoped this proclamation would encourage people to <br /> consider their own mental health and being open to seeking assistance. She said she also <br /> hoped it would help the Board focus on how they can improve the community's health through <br /> operational and capital budgets. <br />