World Mental Health Day 2025: Theme, History and Significance

World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 every year to raise awareness about mental health and its impact on our physical and emotional well-being. With the continually rising cases of different kinds of mental health issues, it has become even more important to address the concerns.

History Of World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day was first observed on October 10, 1992. This initiative was launched by the World Federation for Mental Health to advocate for improved mental health and raise awareness, enabling people to come forward, share their struggles, and receive the necessary support.

World Mental Health Day 2025 Theme

The theme for World Mental Health Day 2025 is Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.

Shedding some light on this theme, Dr Sachin Baliga, Consultant - Psychiatrist, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, says, “In moments of catastrophe and crisis, we often witness the fragility of structures we take for granted. Yet it is in those moments that mental health supports must prove unshakable. Be it the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy, the 1993 Latur Earthquake, the 2004 Tsunami, or the recent COVID pandemic, India has had its share of catastrophies, both natural and manmade. The theme this year, Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies, compels us to remember that trauma does not knock on the door or wait until rebuilding is complete. It manifests in the first tremor, the first shock, the first loss. In conflict zones, regions hit by natural disasters, or communities overwhelmed by pandemics or displacement, access to mental health care must be treated not as a luxury but as an essential lifeline.”

“Access in crisis is not only about deploying clinicians or counselling hotlines. It is about restoring dignity, enabling connection, and giving meaning when life unravels. It means prioritising mental health in every recovery plan and empowering survivors not only to heal but to lead the rebuilding of their own lives. Let us commit that no matter how great the disaster, mental health care will travel the hardest miles, cross the deepest divides, and reach every person in need,” Dr Baliga adds.

Also Read: Mental Health Math: Why You Need 2 Hours of Social Fasting a Week to Recharge Yourself

Significance of World Mental Health Day

According to Dr Manish Kumar Verma, HOD & Professor, Department of Psychology, Lovely Professional University, “World Mental Health Day serves as a vital reminder that mental well-being is as important as physical health, not just for individuals but for societies and workplaces at large. It encourages us to pause, reflect, and foster empathy, awareness, and open conversations around mental health. The significance of this day lies in breaking the long-standing stigma, normalising the need for support, and promoting early intervention. In a world that constantly demands performance and resilience, taking care of one’s emotional and psychological health should be seen as a strength, not a weakness. Whether through inclusive policies, peer support, or simply listening without judgement, each of us has a role to play in building a culture of compassion and mental well-being. The day reminds us that progress begins when we collectively prioritise the mind, creating communities where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued.”

Also Read: The Hidden Costs Of Ignoring Mental Health In The Workplace

Mr Tarun Gupta, Director and Co-founder of Lissun, a Mental Health Startup shares, “On World Mental Health Day, we are reminded that mental wellness is equally important as physical health, yet millions of people and families continue to struggle for timely diagnosis and support. We are committed to bridging this gap and making mental health services accessible and inclusive for everyone. This would strengthen the resilience and instill a sense of emotional wellbeing, helping the people navigate mental health challenges in an effective manner. We integrate professional expertise with innovative AI enabled technologies to offer practical strategies."

Final Word

Too many people already face barriers to support in normal times, including stigma, distance, cost, and lack of trained professionals. When disaster strikes, those barriers multiply or become insurmountable. Yet the human mind is not a casualty; it is a battleground of despair and hope, and it needs care. We must build systems that are resilient, responsive, and anchored in communities, so that psychological first aid, therapy, peer support, and continuity of care are integrated into emergency response by design. Everyone has a role, and every hand matters, young and old.