Resolution Empowering People to Attain Mental and Physical Health and Resilience

Adopted at the 92nd Annual Meeting in 2024

  • WHEREAS, mental health experts note that one-third of Americans are suffering from clinical depression or anxiety; and

    WHEREAS, our nation faces rising healthcare costs driven by anxiety, depression, addiction, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other preventable conditions; and

    WHEREAS, communities face significant social and economic burdens from mental health conditions such as difficulty in maintaining employment, completing education, and contributing to the community as a whole; and

    WHEREAS, loneliness and social isolation are significant concerns in the United States; and

    WHEREAS, lacking social connection increases the risk of premature death by 60%; and

    WHEREAS, social connections can decrease the risk of heart disease by 29%, contribute to a strengthened immune system, reduce susceptibility to illnesses, and plays a crucial role in aiding individuals' recovery from mental health challenges; and

    WHEREAS, Social connection with others can help improve your ability to recover from stress, anxiety, and depression; promote healthy eating, physical activity, and healthy weight; and improve sleep, well-being, and quality of life; and

    WHEREAS, United States Surgeon General Vivek Murthy stated, "together, we can build a country that's healthier, more resilient, less lonely, and more connected; and

    WHEREAS, people who exercise regularly have better mental health and emotional wellbeing, lower rates of mental illness, and lower risk of severe illness from certain infectious diseases; and

    WHEREAS, physical activity is associated with substantially lower risks of depression and anxiety; a person who exercises just half the recommended weekly amount lowers their risk for depression by 18%; and

    WHEREAS, a recent study showed just 11 minutes per day of moderate exercise reduces the risk of premature death by 23%; and

    WHEREAS, Mayors across the country have successfully used Move with the Mayor®, a national, easy-to-use, free initiative, to encourage and empower active, healthy, socially connected living through programs, policies, and infrastructure changes.

    NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The United States Conference of Mayors urges mayors to engage members of their communities to be more physically active and socially connected to improve mental health and strengthen individual and community resilience, using programs such as Move with the Mayor®.
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