Declaring The Month of May in 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia and further honoring Dr. Taliba Foster for her work in the field of mental health.

Declaring The Month of May in 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia and further honoring Dr. Taliba Foster for her work in the field of mental health. WHEREAS, Mental Health Awareness Month has been recognized since 1949 and is designed to raise awareness and educate the public about those who struggle with mental health related issues and to reduce stigma; and WHEREAS, Maintaining positive mental health is essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In the United States, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 5 adults experience mental health challenges each year. 1 in 20 adults experience serious mental illness each year, 1 in 6 young people aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year. Tragically, suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10-14 years old. These staggering statistics showcase the importance of recognizing mental health awareness in the City of Philadelphia; and WHEREAS, The theme of 2024’s Mental Health Awareness Month is entitled “Where to Start” which recognizes that mental health struggles are often times extremely overwhelming, and many do not know where to start as they begin the road to healing. “Where to Start” is designed to provide resources for those who are struggling so they can begin to get the help they deserve; and WHEREAS, Dr. Taliba Foster is the Chief Medical Officer of Main Line Psychiatric. Dr. Foster received her undergraduate degree from the University of…