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This item is a press copy of President John F. Kennedy's televised remarks regarding his special message to Congress on mental illness and mental retardation delivered from the White House Fish Room. In his speech, the President discusses his plans for a national mental health program, which includes comprehensive community mental health centers, improved care in state mental institutions, and increased research. To combat mental retardation, he recommends emphasizing preventative lifestyle measures, improved community services, increased research, and comprehensive maternity and child health care assistance programs.