Celebrating World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day (WMHD), observed by the World Health Organization (WHO) since 2013, is recognized on October 10th of each year. As a global awareness day, WMHD underscores mental health care as a global priority, highlights our shared responsibility in supporting mental well-being, and encourages individuals, organizations, and providers to raise awareness of mental health issues and support global communities. Since 2020, this day has garnered more attention, as the COVID-19 pandemic sparked an international crisis in mental health. Exploring WMHD can offer insights into current global mental health challenges and ways to find support.

Why World Mental Health Day matters

World Mental Health Day is a globally recognized day with the objective of raising awareness of mental health issues worldwide and mobilizing efforts to support mental well-being for all. The United Nations helps the WHO organize events each year to further the cause of WMHD and expand the reach of awareness tactics in various communities.

World Mental Health Day can allow individuals to learn more about mental well-being and the importance of supporting their own mental health. Awareness of mental health, key mental health risks, the impact of serious mental illness, and available treatment options can have positive impacts not only on an individual level but also on a societal level. 

The importance of World Mental Health Day

WMHD allows experts, providers, doctors, and other stakeholders to come together to raise awareness of several areas of mental well-being and make them a global priority. Below are a few lessons that may be gained from World Mental Health Day.

1. Mental health is varied and mental health concerns are widespread

In 2023, studies found that one out of every two people worldwide may experience a mental illness in their lifetime, impacting 50% of the world’s population. World Mental Health Day recognizes all individuals affected by mental health conditions and concerns, which encompasses billions of people.

WMHD focuses on more than one mental health condition, symptom, and experience, recognizing that everyone’s mental health journey is unique. There are 298 mental health diagnoses listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), a diagnostic book providers often use when offering mental healthcare and treatment. Because there are so many different mental health conditions, efforts to increase awareness of mental health can have a broad reach. With millions of people living with various mental health conditions, having a variety of treatments available for individuals from different cultures, lifestyles, backgrounds, and minds can be crucial.

2. Destigmatizing mental health conditions makes a positive difference

While significant progress has been made, certain stigmas surrounding mental health exist to this day, creating barriers to getting support and treatment. Actively fighting against these stigmas can make a positive change. Researchers have found that reducing the stigma of mental health conditions on all levels of society can support individuals in receiving accurate, trauma-informed, and effective support.

With many myths and misguided ideas on mental health, World Mental Health Day can bring awareness to the most up-to-date statistics and resources on mental health so that all people partaking can receive the most accurate information. A few common myths about mental health include the following:

• “Mental health conditions are only experienced by women.” (False)
• “Addiction is always a choice.” (False)
• "Depression is just a lack of self-care.” (False)
• "Relationships can’t be fixed in couples therapy.” (False) 

You don’t have to be experiencing a mental health condition to ask for support or receive treatment. Seeking support sooner rather than later may help you prevent your mental health from worsening. Reaching out for help can be a brave step, particularly if you feel embarrassed or ashamed of your concerns. By prioritizing your well-being and caring for yourself, you can help break mental health stigmas and encourage others to do the same.

3. Suicide prevention is important

Research shows that 94% of the population in the US believes that suicide can be prevented and want to help. However, many people may be at a loss for how they can be most useful. Studies show that individuals who receive a crisis plan after a suicide attempt are less likely to have future attempts and more likely to follow up for support. In part, putting suicide prevention efforts in place can help ensure that more people remain out of harm’s way. Being aware of the warning signs of poor mental health and suicide can be just one way to prevent future loss of life.

4. Mental health includes physical health 

Mental and physical health are intricately connected, with significant evidence of the existence of a mind-body connection. Certain mental health conditions and even work-related stress can negatively impact one’s overall well-being. For example, chronic stress and a prolonged fight-or-flight response have been linked to several illnesses and ailments, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiologic issues. 

World Mental Health Day can bring awareness to mental health, allowing individuals to be treated sooner and potentially reducing the risk of physical consequences of treatment delays.

5. Adult resources can be as important as youth resources

Adult resources can be as important as youth resources In some cases, adult resources may be limited for certain mental health conditions such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and other types of developmental disabilities, which tend to be more common among younger populations. Awareness of adult mental health can increase the resources available to those who lack a support system or want to partake in self-advocacy.

World Mental Health Day recognizes that mental health conditions impact people of all ages and that adequate resources should be available to everyone regardless of the concerns they’re facing.

6. Certain communities may benefit from extra support 

World Mental Health Day focuses on unique communities worldwide instead of those in only one location. Studies indicate that certain communities are at a higher risk for mental health challenges. Thus, understanding the cultural implications of mental health needs worldwide can be significant. 

For example, tribal communities, Black and Indigenous people of color (BIPOC), LGBTQ+ individuals, and those impacted by poverty may be more at risk for certain mental health concerns, such as depression. World Mental Health Day seeks to bring awareness to disadvantaged communities and provide them with resources and support.

From awareness to action: How you can participate in World Mental Health Day

There are many ways to participate in World Mental Health Day, whether you choose to join global events related to the day or take action in your local community. Below are a few ways you can celebrate World Mental Health Day:

• Download communication material from the United Nations, which offers an array of helpful resources to use to raise awareness online or in your community

• Attend World Mental Health Day events online throughout the month of October, such as educational sessions, webinars, and more 

• Organize a virtual or in-person event of your own to honor World Mental Health Day and reflect on this year’s theme

Promoting well-being and preventing risks in everyday life

Outside of participating in events for World Mental Health Day, there are many other ways you can promote mental health and protect against mental health risks in day-to-day life all year round. You can experiment and find what feels most comfortable for you, and you may consider starting with some of the following: 

1. Get a screening

Mental health screenings can offer an available, quick, and free way to assess your risk of developing a particular mental health condition, such as depression. You can find free online screenings through websites like Mental Health America. However, an online screening does not replace the advice and treatment of a qualified professional, such as a doctor.

Your primary care physician might also perform screening tests when you attend your annual checkup. After receiving your results, you or your doctor may want to discuss particular areas in more detail or come up with a treatment plan should your results indicate the presence of a mental health disorder. Even if you don’t think you have a mental health condition, screening tests can be valuable in case you’re unsure of your symptoms or want to safeguard your mental and physical health during a yearly checkup. 

2. Check in with those you love

Checking in with those you love about mental health and wellness can be advantageous in making mental health less stigmatized. Even those you’re closest to may not always talk about their symptoms due to the stigma surrounding mental health. Your loved ones may feel ashamed or embarrassed, believing they should be able to help themselves and “snap out of it”. On the contrary, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, bravery, and vulnerability, and support can lead to healing. In addition, loneliness and social isolation can pose serious risks to mental health, so making an active effort to connect with your loved ones can be a powerful way to prevent mental health risks and promote mental health in your circle.

Checking in with your loved ones can give you an indication of their well-being and allow you to assess whether they might be experiencing the symptoms of a mental health condition. Common warning signs of a mental health condition can include: 

• Decreased pleasure in previously enjoyed activities
• Nervousness or frequent worrying 
• Isolation or withdrawal from social systems 
• Talking about suicide, self-harm, or further isolation 
• Hateful or unkind comments about one’s body or appearance
• Frequent crying or irritability 

These symptoms can vary depending on the person and what they’re going through. Beyond these warning signs, you may also consider if your loved one is experiencing any psychosocial risks that may be impacting their mental health, such as excessive workloads, job insecurity, or other stressors from living in an unequal world.If you’re concerned about a loved one’s well-being, let them know you’re there and offer to help them find professional support.  

3. Take a break for self-care

Self-care can be beneficial regardless of your mental health status. For example, meditation practices can increase self-compassion and improve physical health. You can also take part in self-care through the following methods: 

• Spending time in nature
• Singing or playing an instrument
• Partaking in your hobbies
• Exercising
• Practicing mindfulness
• Yoga
• Spending time with your family, partner, friends, or pets
• Journaling or reading
• Creating an at-home mental health care plan

Although you may create a crisis or treatment plan alongside a mental health professional, you can also create an at-home plan on your own, whether you attend therapy or not. While making your plan, consider adding the following: 

• The names, phone numbers, and emails of three support people in your life
• Three to five coping skills you can use when you are distressed or struggling with your mental health 
• A list of crisis numbers or hotlines 
• A list of crisis resources in your area 
• A list of five things you are grateful for in your life 
• Tools you can use to feel better at home, such as a weighted blanket or an adult coloring book 

Refer to your plan when you feel stressed, experience distressing symptoms, or struggle. If you want professional support in building your plan, consider reaching out to a counselor. 

Spotlight on support systems: Services, workplaces, and communities 

This year’s World Mental Health Day theme, “Access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies,” sheds light on the importance of ensuring both communities and support workers impacted by humanitarian emergencies can obtain the support they need to protect their mental well-being during these crises. As the World Health Organization emphasizes, providing this support requires all of us to come together—including health care providers, school staff, government officials, businesses, and community groups. Supporting those affected by humanitarian crises can include ensuring the most vulnerable can obtain the services they need, creating safe and healthy working environments for those serving in crisis zones, and rallying behind communities to empower them to recover and rebuild after experiencing a disaster.

Getting mental health support with online therapy

World Mental Health Day aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote mental well-being globally. The World Health Organization supports this initiative by providing resources, advocating for mental health policies, and encouraging efforts to improve mental health care worldwide. 

One way to recognize World Mental Health Day is by reaching out for support for any mental health concerns you might face. Asking for help can be challenging but may also be a brave step toward self-care and healing. In addition, you don’t have to have a mental health condition to seek support. Therapy is commonly employed for stress, life changes, and relationship challenges.  

For those facing barriers to treatment or struggling with the cost of counseling, online therapy might be a preferable alternative option. With an online therapy platform such as BetterHelp, you can choose between phone, video, and live chat sessions with a licensed therapist through an internet-based modality. Sessions are held according to your schedule, and you can choose to meet with your therapist from anywhere you have a stable internet connection. 

There is an increasing amount of research pointing to online therapy as an effective method of treatment for individuals experiencing a range of psychological issues. According to one comprehensive report, online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is at least as effective as face-to-face therapy when treating an array of mental health concerns. In the report, researchers offer several benefits of web-based interventions, noting that online CBT can be personalized to individuals' needs while eliminating geographical limitations. CBT is a form of therapy that helps people identify their unhelpful, intrusive thoughts that may be leading to negative emotions or behaviors. 

There is an increasing amount of research pointing to online therapy as an effective method of treatment for individuals experiencing a range of psychological issues. According to one comprehensive report, online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is at least as effective as face-to-face therapy when treating an array of mental health concerns. In the report, published by the World Psychiatric Association, researchers offer several benefits of web-based interventions, noting that online CBT can be personalized to the needs of individuals while also eliminating geographical limitations. CBT is a form of therapy that helps people identify their unhelpful, intrusive thoughts that may be leading to negative emotions or behaviors.