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April 2023: Mental Health Awareness for Student Athletes Month

WHEREAS, a growing number of student athletes are experiencing mental health challenges on and off the field; and,

WHEREAS, the expectation to perform, maintain academic work, and obtain high achievements in sports can cause stress, anxiety, and depression, which in the most severe cases, can lead to suicide if left untreated; and,

WHEREAS, studies show student athletes may be less likely to seek counseling and other professional help services; and,

WHEREAS, mental health stigma, especially among athletes, contributes to youth athletes not seeking care or vocalizing mental health concerns to parents, peers, and coaches; and,

WHEREAS, mental and physical health are equally important; and,

WHEREAS, with a month of awareness, supporters can promote education and provide comfort to our youth in the State of Michigan;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2023 as Mental Health Awareness for Student Athletes Month in Michigan.