In a day of 21st Century, lives of people are going as fast as a metro. In an era of health conscious people where they are more aware about the healthy living, a many times the mental health is being ignored or is not much recognized by the people of our society. To raise the awareness of mental health all around the world, “World mental health day” is celebrated every year on “10th of October.” It was first celebrated in 1992, initiated by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH). Every year the day has a specific theme and the theme for 2024 is “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” – emphasizing mental health as a fundamental right, highlighting the need for equitable access to mental health services globally. Also past themes have focused on topics like suicide prevention, mental health in the workplace, and mental health for all.
History of World Mental Health Day
- Founded by the WFMH in 1992: The World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) established World Mental Health Day to promote mental health education, awareness, and advocacy.
- Global Focus on Mental Health Issues: Initially, there wasn’t a specific theme for the day. However, starting in 1994, themes began to be selected to highlight particular areas of concern. This has helped focus global attention on a wide range of mental health issues, from depression and anxiety to suicide prevention.
- WHO’s Role: The World Health Organization (WHO) has been a major partner, providing technical support and helping to amplify the impact of the day
Importance of Mental health
- Raising Awareness: World Mental Health Day plays a crucial role in breaking down the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health conditions. Millions of people worldwide suffer from mental health issues, but many do not seek help due to social stigmas or lack of access to care.
- Advocating for Better Access to Mental Health Services: The day calls attention to the need for accessible, quality mental health services and the importance of integrating mental health care into primary health care.
- Reducing Stigma: By encouraging open discussions and sharing stories, the day aims to reduce the negative perceptions associated with mental illness.
- Promoting Well-being: Mental health is not just the absence of illness but a state of overall well-being. World Mental Health Day encourages everyone to take steps to maintain their mental well-being.
World federation of Mental Health
The World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) is an international non-governmental organization founded in 1948 to promote the advancement of mental health awareness, prevention of mental disorders, advocacy for mental health services, and the protection of human rights for people with mental health conditions worldwide. It works with international organizations like the United Nations and the World Health Organization to influence mental health policies and improve global mental health services.
Key Objectives and Mission
- Global Awareness: WFMH’s primary goal is to promote mental health and raise awareness about mental health issues globally.
- Advocacy and Policy Influence: The organization advocates for policy changes that improve access to mental health care, reduce stigma, and protect the rights of individuals with mental illness.
- Education and Research: WFMH promotes the exchange of knowledge and research on mental health issues and supports education for mental health professionals and the general public.
- Human Rights Focus: A core part of their mission is advocating for the protection of the human rights of individuals with mental health conditions, ensuring their dignity and freedom from discrimination.
Key Areas of Work
- Stigma Reduction: WFMH actively works to reduce the stigma and discrimination that often accompany mental health conditions through education and advocacy.
- Promoting Mental Health Services: The organization supports initiatives to improve the availability and quality of mental health services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to care is often limited.
- Mental Health in Crisis Situations: WFMH also focuses on mental health support during crises, such as natural disasters, war, and pandemics, helping to ensure that mental health care is part of emergency response efforts.
Global Reach and Partnerships
WFMH operates globally, working with various international organizations, governments, professional associations, and non-governmental organizations. It has members and affiliates in over 150 countries, helping to ensure that mental health is recognized as a priority across different regions and cultures.
The WFMH continues to be a driving force in advocating for mental health as a fundamental human right, striving to ensure that everyone, regardless of background, has access to mental health care.
Global Impact
- Events and Campaigns: Across the globe, various events such as seminars, walks, social media campaigns, and community support initiatives are organized to mark the day.
- Mental Health in the Workplace: Many organizations take this opportunity to implement or reinforce mental health support programs, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being in professional settings.
- Education and Advocacy: Governments, NGOs, and other entities use the day to advocate for policies that support mental health funding, research, and services. Schools and institutions may host educational sessions to teach individuals about recognizing symptoms and getting help.
Challenges faced
- Stigma: Despite advances, mental health issues still carry significant stigma in many societies, leading to isolation, discrimination, and marginalization.
- Access to Care: In many parts of the world, mental health services remain underfunded or inaccessible. The WHO estimates that in low- and middle-income countries, between 75% and 95% of people with mental disorders are unable to access any mental health services.
- Mental Health During Crises: Pandemics, wars, and economic crises have been shown to exacerbate mental health issues, increasing the need for resources and care.
Themes of World Mental Health Day
Each year, the day is celebrated with a specific theme focusing on particular mental health issues or goals. Some past themes include:
- 2024: “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” – emphasizing mental health as a fundamental right, highlighting the need for equitable access to mental health services globally.
- 2023: “Mental health & well-being for all” – promoting the importance of taking care of one’s mental well-being and ensuring mental health services are available to all.
- 2021: “Mental Health in an Unequal World” – addressing the gaps in access to mental health services across different socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic lines.
Benefits of maintaining good mental health
1. Improved Emotional Well-being
- Resilience: Good mental health helps individuals better cope with stress, trauma, or adverse events. It enhances emotional resilience, allowing people to recover more quickly from difficult situations.
- Positive Mood: People with good mental health tend to experience more stable and positive emotions, such as happiness, contentment, and a sense of purpose in life.
- Reduced Anxiety and Depression: Effective mental health practices, like therapy or mindfulness, can help prevent or manage anxiety and depression, leading to a better quality of life.
2. Enhanced Cognitive Function
- Clearer Thinking: Good mental health supports clear, rational thinking and better decision-making. It improves focus and concentration, making it easier to handle daily tasks or challenges.
- Memory and Learning: Mental well-being is linked to improved cognitive functions such as memory, problem-solving, and the ability to learn new things.
3. Stronger Relationships
- Better Communication: People with good mental health are more likely to communicate effectively, express their needs, and understand others’ emotions, leading to healthier relationships.
- Deeper Connections: Positive mental health fosters empathy, trust, and emotional intimacy, which are essential for maintaining close relationships with family, friends, and partners.
4. Physical Health Benefits
- Improved Immune System: Studies show that good mental health can enhance the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections and diseases.
- Lower Risk of Chronic Illnesses: Individuals with good mental health tend to have a lower risk of chronic health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. This is often linked to reduced stress and healthier lifestyle choices.
- Better Sleep: Mental well-being often leads to improved sleep patterns, which in turn supports overall health, better mood, and cognitive function.
5. Increased Productivity and Performance
- Work and Academic Success: Good mental health enables individuals to focus better on tasks, be more productive, and achieve goals at work or school. It also reduces absenteeism and burnout.
- Creativity and Problem-Solving: People with positive mental health often experience greater creativity and are more open to new ideas and solutions.
6. Greater Self-Esteem and Confidence
- Self-Respect: A strong sense of mental well-being is associated with higher self-esteem and self-worth. People are more likely to feel confident and capable of handling life’s challenges.
- Empowerment: When mental health is prioritized, individuals feel empowered to take control of their lives, make decisions, and pursue personal growth and goals.
Conclusion
Considering all the above points mental health is the most important and crucial thing in any persons life, and it can not be compromised at any stage of life. So we pledge to take all the necessary steps to be mentally fit and promote the importance of mental wellness for the betterment of human beings.
