World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on October 10th to address the growing need for awareness around mental health and to support and initiate policy reformations around mental health. The theme of this year is 'Mental health is a human right,' which was announced on March 29, 2023, by Dr Nasser Loza, President, World Federation For Mental Health (WFMH).
In the spirit of World Mental Health Day, let's explore the significance of this year's theme, its relevance, and the importance of celebrating mental health day every year across the globe.
World Mental Health Day 2023 Theme
People voicing concerns about their mental health is still taboo even though the conversation around mental health is expanding by leaps and bounds. When considered on an individual level, discrimination, misinformation, and ignorance are rampant in matters of mental health. For example, mental health leaves from work are still discouraged or down right unrecognised. To trump this prejudice this year's theme 'Mental health is a human right,' stands correct.
It is a known fact that poor mental health and psychological disabilities put people at risk of chronic diseases and reduced life expectancy. Moreover, this stigma around mental health further exacerbates the lack of quality care for the consequences of poor mental health. This year's theme signifies just this and urges the masses to cultivate positive surroundings, healthy relationships, safe spaces, and an inclusive environment to ensure the well-being of everybody.
However, Dr Loza while announcing this year's theme highlighted how the state and global organisations hold the biggest share of the burden to help destigmatise mental health. He said, "Ensuring access to mental health services must be an obligation and responsibility of state and global organisations which can no longer be ignored. Access to better living conditions, security, food, shelter and housing are all necessary for people's mental health. Mental health is a universal right to all citizens of the world."
Relevance Of Mental Health Day
Celebrating mental health day every year on a global scale is relevant because mental health is a global concern. Its relevance lies in several key aspects:
- Destigmatising Mental Health: World Mental Health Day is observed every year in the hope of combating the stigma associated with mental health problems. By openly discussing these issues, it may encourage people to seek help without the fear of shame or ridicule.
- Global Impact: Mental health challenges affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds across the globe. This day emphasises that mental health is a universal concern, fostering empathy and understanding on a global scale.
- Advocacy and Support: Mental Health Day provides a platform for organisations, governments, and individuals to advocate for better mental health policies, services, and support systems.
- Education: This day was also established to educate people about the importance of mental health and how to maintain it. It also highlights the signs of mental health disorders and the resources available for treatment and support. The responsible authorities also get a chance to advocate effective measures to maintain mental well-being, such as stress management, self-care, and seeking professional help when necessary.
Why Is World Mental Health Day Important?
World Mental Health Day is important because it raises awareness about mental health issues and promotes mental well-being worldwide.
As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), 280 million people in the world have depression, and more than 7,00,000 people die due to suicide every year, making suicide the fourth leading cause of death in 15 to 29-year-olds.
The unfortunate truth revealed by WHO is that 'although there are known, effective treatments for mental disorders, more than 75% of people in low- and middle-income countries receive no treatment.' This is where the importance of mental health day lies:
- To raise awareness about mental health issues.
- Promote mental well-being.
- Remind everyone of the need to prioritise mental health.
- Reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conditions.
In summary, World Mental Health Day is relevant and important as it contributes to a global conversation on mental health, reducing stigma, and encouraging individuals to prioritise their mental well-being. So lets pledge our support towards these global efforts to better public health for every one, regardless of gender, geography, and financial resources.