Proclamation Bipolar Disorder D
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PROCLAMA TION
WHEREAS, more than 2.3 million Americans are affected by bipolar disorder, a
serious Brain disorder that causes extreme shifts in mood, energy
and functioning; and
WHEREAS, misdiagnosis is a major problem for people with bipolar disorder, as
seven out of ten patients receive at least one misdiagnosis and many
suffer for 10 years before an accurate diagnosis is made; and
WHEREAS, late adolescence is an essential time for education and awareness as
the majority of people with bipolar disorder experience an onset of
symptoms before age 20; and
WHEREAS, the National Alliance for the Mentally III (NAMI) is recognizing
October 7, 2004 as Bipolar Disorder Awareness Day, during Mental
Illness Awareness Week; and
WHEREAS,
Bipolar Disorder Awareness Day seeks to increase people's
understanding of the devastating impact of bipolar disorder
symptoms on the lives of undiagnosed individuals, their family and
friends, and seeks to promote early bipolar disorder detection
through mental health screenings; and
WHEREAS, there is no cure for bipolar disorder, there are effective treatment
options that can help those with bipolar disorder to lead fulfilling
lives.
NOW THEREFORE, I, TERRANCE M. DUGGAN, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA DO HEREBY PROCLAIM OCTOBER 7, 2004 TO BE:
"BIPOLAR DISORDER AWARENESS DAY"
IN DUBUQUE, IOWA, AND URGE RESIDENTS TO EDUCATE THEMSELVES ON
BIPOLAR DISORDER AND MENTAL ILLNESS.
IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused the Great Seal of the
City of Dubuque, IA to be affixed this 4th day
of October, 2004.
Terrance M. Duggan, Mayor
Attest:
Jeanne F. Schneider, City Clerk