May 20, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 84 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Page H3998]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING MENTAL HEALTH MONTH

  (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
month of May as Mental Health Month for the 70th consecutive year.
  Unfortunately, throughout our history in the United States, many 
mental health conditions have been overlooked and often met with 
rejection, shame, and more. But mental health conditions truly touch us 
all. Between family members and friends, we all are either affected 
ourselves or we know someone with a mental health condition.
  Currently, 46.6 million adults in the U.S. have a mental health 
condition. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S., and 
90 percent of those who die by suicide have an underlying mental 
illness revealed by psychological autopsy.
  Less than half of adults in the U.S. are receiving adequate treatment 
for mental health.
  During the month of May, I encourage everyone to get a mental health 
checkup and to remember that your mental health is as important as your 
physical health.
  Please know, you are not alone, and it is okay to open up and share 
what you are going through.

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