Dover Mayor, City Council proclaim May as Mental Health Awareness Month

posted on 5/10/2024

At the May 8 City Council meeting, Dover Mayor Robert Carrier issued a proclamation declaring May 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month in the city. The proclamation was presented to Suzanne Weete and Melissa Lesniak, members of the Dover Mental Health Alliance.

"Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being, impacting youth, families, individuals, and those who work in or own businesses across Dover," Carrier said, reading from the proclamation. He noted that one in five American adults and one in six adolescents experience mental health conditions each year.

The proclamation stated, "Despite its prevalence, mental health remains shrouded in stigma, preventing many from seeking help." It encouraged residents to "educate yourself and others about mental health conditions, treatment options, and available resources" and "challenge stigma by speaking respectfully and inclusively about mental health."

Before reading the proclamation, Carrier asked Weete what individuals can do to raise mental health awareness.

"What can we do as individuals is become educated about the impact of mental health challenges and mental illness, not only on individuals, but an entire community," Weete said. "We have to talk about it to normalize this health condition that is a crisis in our country, in our world."

Weete, a volunteer with the Dover Mental Health Alliance and staff member with Community Partners, emphasized the importance of open discussion. "The more we talk about it, the more people feel they're empowered. The more people can ask for help without feeling shame or discrimination," she said.

The proclamation urged residents to "seek help if you are struggling with your mental health and encourage others to do the same." It also called for supporting organizations providing mental health services, creating supportive environments for conversations, and working together "to create a community where everyone feels empowered to prioritize their mental well-being."

After presenting the proclamation, Carrier thanked the Dover Mental Health Alliance volunteers, acknowledging their passion and commitment to this important cause in the community.

The full text of the proclamation can be read on the City of Dover's website here.