Senator Hammerstrom offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 120.

            A resolution commemorating May as Children’s Mental Health Month in Michigan.

            Whereas, Healthy Michigan children and families are our state’s most valuable resources; and

Whereas, The Michigan Department of Community Health estimates that 11 percent of this state’s children are currently affected by serious emotional disturbances; and

Whereas, Children who do not receive treatment for mental health problems are at high risk for school failure, substance abuse, and entrance into the juvenile justice system; and

Whereas, Families are essential partners in the delivery of effective mental health services, and early intervention leads to better mental health outcomes; and

Whereas, Michigan’s families and children benefit greatly from mental health services that are individualized, culturally competent, family-driven, and community-based; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby commemorate May as Children’s Mental Health Month in Michigan. We express our support for the proactive leadership of the Michigan Department of Community Health, the Association for Children’s Mental Health, Michigan health care providers, quality improvement partners, and consumer advocates in the delivery of effective mental health services in Michigan; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Michigan Department of Community Health, the Association for Children’s Mental Health, and the Michigan Association for Children with Emotional Disorders.