World Mental Health Day is an annual observance that highlights mental health issues around the world.

Official Date: October 10

Mental health is considered one of the most significant aspects of public health due to its direct effect on societal health and the function and performance of communities.

Key Focus Areas

• Raise community awareness about mental health conditions such as mental illnesses, depression, and addiction.
• Support adolescents and the youth and encourage them to take care of their mental health at an early age.
• Conduct studies and surveys at Mental Health Hospitals to analyse the most significant causes of mental health disorders.
• Provide the necessary care, especially for healthcare workers, because of the mental and psychological pressures they face due to the nature of their work.
• Organize activities and events to promote mental health and psychological well-being at schools and workplaces, especially after the COVID-19  pandemic.
• Mobilize the necessary financial support for the mental health sector and consider it an integral part of public healthcare services.

Top Facts

• Mental health is considered one of the most neglected aspects of healthcare.
• Around 1 billion people around the world suffer from mental health disorders.
• 1 in 8 people suffers from mental health disorder.
• The world witnesses suicide cases every 40 seconds due to mental health disorders.
• Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people between the ages of 15-29 years.
• Most mental health problems are not diagnosed or treated.
• Adolescents living in conflict and disaster zones are more likely to suffer from mental illnesses and disorders.

Sources

United Nations

World Health Organization