STATE OF NEVADA RECOGNIZES
CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH SUMMIT DAY

            CARSON CITY - Gov. Kenny Guinn announced today that Nevada has joined more than 60 other communities from 40 states in a national "summit day" on May 4 to recognize children's mental health. In honoring the public and private partnerships in Nevada that recognize the complex mental health needs of children, youth and families, Gov. Guinn has issued a proclamation declaring May 4 as Children's Mental Health Summit Day.

            "Nationwide, one in five children and youth experience a mental health problem, and the same holds true in Nevada," Gov. Guinn said. "The National Children's Mental Health Summit Day represents an important time for families, decision-makers and the public to consider the mental health needs of children and how to effectively address those needs."

            According to the President Bush's New Freedom Commission Report on Mental Health, 5 to 9 percent of children in the United States have mental health needs, but only about half are getting the help they require.

            Jone Bosworth, Administrator for the Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS), stated, "We want all Nevadans to work together to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Children and families are Nevada's future - we must all work toward empowering families to care for their children and support children in reaching their full human potential." By recognizing Children's Mental Health Summit Day, officials in Nevada are hoping to spotlight the message that when families and communities work together, they can make a difference for children and families.