Research from Harvard has suggested half of the world’s population will suffer from a mental health disorder at some point. That’s around four billion people!
Poor mental health affects people from all walks of life, from big business executives to children who may feel unhappy at home or struggle to concentrate at school.
Common conditions like depression and anxiety can be triggered by challenges like moving home or losing a loved one.
Life isn’t always easy, and taking care of your mental health is as important as taking care of your physical health.
That’s why there is an international day for mental health, which aims to raise awareness and promote good health and well-being.
Whether you want to improve your mental health or support someone you love, there are many things to know about World Mental Health Day.
History of World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day was first observed on October 10, 1992. It was led by the World Federation for Mental Health, a network of international mental health advocates.
Richard C. Hunter, who was the Deputy Secretary-General of the World Federation for Mental Health, has been credited with creating this global day to raise awareness.
World Mental Health Day became an annual event that brought people together across dozens of countries to campaign for change.
Eugene Brody, the Secretary-General of the World Federation for Mental Health in 1994, suggested that World Mental Health Day should have a different theme every time.
On October 10 of that year, World Mental Health Day introduced its first theme: improving the quality of mental health services throughout the world.
Other themes since then have included women and mental health, children and mental health, and mental health at work.
World Mental Health Day quickly became a popular and widely-commemorated international day. It created a moment for policy discussions about mental health and what more needs to be done.
Today, millions of people around the world take part in different initiatives to mark the day.
Governments, charities, and individuals get involved in campaigns, like the UK Mental Health Foundation’s Tea & Talk events.
Businesses use this opportunity to relay important messages to their employees and encourage them to look after their well-being.
People raise awareness on social media and take a moment to check in with their friends.
How to mark World Mental Health Day
Check in with your friends.
Good friendships can help us stay healthy and maintain great mental health!
On World Mental Health Day, there is no better reason to get in touch with the people you love. Call a friend for a few minutes or text to ask how they are feeling.
Learn more about mental health.
If you don’t know much about many of the common mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety, why not use World Mental Health Day to learn more?
This could help you to better look after yourself and your loved ones.
You could find out more about the challenges of mental health stigma and how to build personal resilience to deal with life’s difficulties.
Post on social media.
Social media is one of the most popular ways to take part in global campaigns.
On October 10, you can see what other people post on platforms such as Instagram and share your thoughts using hashtags like #WorldMentalHealthDay.
This is a great way to feel involved in this international movement.
World Mental Health Day FAQ
What color should I wear on World Mental Health Day?
There is no official color associated with World Mental Health Day. However, the international symbol of mental health awareness is a green ribbon.
Some campaigns also encourage students to wear yellow to show their support on October 10.
Why is mental health important?
Poor mental health has a drastic effect on the way somebody feels. Looking after your mental well-being is essential to enjoy a good quality of life and prevent illnesses like heart disease.
Are there any other mental health awareness days?
Mental Health Awareness Week takes place in May, and Mental Health Awareness Month is celebrated throughout October.
5 Facts About Mental Health
There are many mental health conditions, including eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
An estimated 1 in 25 adults in the United States has a severe mental health condition like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Mental health illnesses can be caused by past trauma, medical conditions, or long-term loneliness.
Governments in Europe spend more money on mental health than any other region. On average, they pay around $46 per person every year.
Mental health has been recognized as a fundamental human right for everyone worldwide.
Staying happy and living a good life involves taking care of your body and mind. World Mental Health Day is a great yearly reminder of why this is so important.
It’s an opportunity to learn more and understand yourself and those around you, and it’s a great excuse to call your friends or meet new people at a local World Mental Health Day event!
