87R8194 TBO-D
By: Thierry H.C.R. No. 31
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Adolescent mental health is a topic of critical
concern that has far-ranging implications in Texas and across the
nation; and
WHEREAS, The American Psychological Association estimates
that approximately 20 percent of children in the U.S. have a
diagnosable mental health disorder, and less than half of these
individuals receive treatment or support; common conditions that
affect youth include depression, anxiety, attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder, eating disorders, and
psychosis; and
WHEREAS, Mental health disorders can have dangerous and
life-threatening impacts on the youth that experience them; suicide
is the third leading cause of death in teenagers aged 15 to 19, and
62,000 adolescents worldwide died as a result of self-harm in 2016;
furthermore, evidence shows that many adolescents engage in
risk-taking behaviors and substance abuse as a means of coping with
mental health issues; and
WHEREAS, Too many young Texans lack access to the treatment
and counseling they need to overcome such challenges; moreover,
those adolescents who do receive some form of assistance are
frequently involved with multiple public agencies, and there is
lack of central oversight to coordinate care; and
WHEREAS, Developing effective strategies and expanding
access to treatment can benefit not only the young people who
struggle with adverse mental health conditions but also their
families, schools, and communities, and an essential first step in
that process is to focus public attention on this urgent health care
issue; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 87th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby designate May 5 as Teen Mental Health Awareness Day; and, be
it further
RESOLVED, That, in accordance with the provisions of Section
391.004(d), Government Code, this designation remain in effect
until the 10th anniversary of the date this resolution is finally
passed by the legislature.