PROCLAMATION 5699—SEPT. 8, 1987
101 STAT. 2187
fering and save lives. They can also restore productivity and increase independence—helping Americans to continue contributing to, rather than become dependent on, society. Americans can avoid the temptation to stigmatize those with mental illnesses by learning more about their causes and treatments. They must recognize that mental disorders are not due to personal weakness, but are heavily influenced by environmental stresses, genetic vulnerabilities, and biochemical and brain dysfunctions. Americans should know about, and use to its potential, the scientific progress that has brought an array of new treatments. Symptoms that once disabled can be alleviated. Dysfunctional behavior and thinking patterns that once crippled can be corrected. Psychological disorders that once undermined personal happiness can be ameliorated through counseling and therapy. Further, Americans can take hope in a future enlightened by today's research. New technologies permit study of the living brain, shedding light on the neurochemical processes that underlie emotion, behavior, and thought. Genetic studies delve into the very substance of life, opening new insights into the causes and possible prevention of some of our most devastating mental illnesses. With knowledge, there is hope. With hope, there is progress. In recognition that Americans need to know more about mental illnesses and their treatments, the Congress, by Public Law 100-81, has designated the week of October 4 through October 10, 1987, as "Mental Illness Awareness Week" and authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in its observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, RONALD REAGAN, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the week beginning October 4, 1987, as Mental Illness Awareness Week. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this week with ceremonies and activities that will enhance the well-being of this Nation by increasing understanding and knowledge of mental illnesses and their treatments. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of September, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twelfth. RONALD REAGAN
Proclamation 5699 of September 8, 1987
National Diabetes Month, 1987 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Diabetes affects the health of perhaps 11 million Americans. It can strike suddenly or it can do subtle long-term damage to major organs. Fully half the people with diabetes do not know they have the disease.
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