Previous Story
‘Mental disorder common but preventable, treatable’
|
Posted on May 03 2005
Although mental illness ranks first in terms of causing disability and is most prevalent in the United States and its territories, it is preventable and treatable, said Gov. Juan N. Babauta on Monday during a proclamation ceremony declaring May as Mental Awareness Month.
The proclamation cited a World Health Organization assertion that mental illness has been found to be more common than cancer and lung and heart disease combined.
It said that one in 10 children suffer from a serious mental illness, which, if left untreated, can lead to school failure, physical illness, substance abuse, and even suicide.
Mental health disorders include schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety disorders combined with substance abuse.
“These are real, common, and treatable,” the proclamation said.
The governor said that prevention is the most cost-effective approach, citing that abuse of legal and illegal drugs cost the communities in terms of lost productivity, crime, and social and family disruptions, among others.
Prevention may include activity programs that offer alternatives for the youth and discourage abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs.
The CNMI, he said, continues to work and offer opportunities for those in need of treatment and independent living assistance.
“The CNMI has made a commitment to community-based systems of mental health care for all residents,” said the governor.
The recovery rate from mental illness, authorities said, is equal to the recovery rate from physical illnesses.
“We continue to focus our resources to rescue lives and restore hope,” said Public Health Secretary James U. Hofschneider.
He said individuals can seek assistance from the Community Guidance Center and the department’s Mental Health Planning Council.
The governor, who signed the proclamation Monday, called on residents, government agencies, private entities, businesses and schools “to work together in raising awareness and understanding of mental health and mental illness.”
