Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. At the outset, I want to thank my colleague, Mrs. Napolitano, for being a partner in this and a leader in this issue for a long time. I am honored to speak with her on this issue. Many of my comments today are going to echo the sentiments that she just spoke here in Congress, but it bears repeating, in my own words. Throughout May, my colleagues and I will bring attention to the impact of mental illness on American society, as well as Congress' role in addressing mental healthcare issues facing the country. It is an honor to collaborate with my colleagues in the Congressional Mental Health Caucus, including Mrs. Napolitano, to raise awareness for mental illness, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and create legislation that improves mental health outcomes for all Americans. Mental illnesses have a devastating effect on those struggling to live with them. This includes changes in mood, social interactions, sleep patterns, and eating habits. Sadly, the most extreme consequences that occur all too often for mental illness are when individuals inflict self-injury or take their life. Here are some statistics that should stun everybody. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death, and it is the 2nd leading cause of death among Americans aged 24 and younger. Let me repeat that.…”