COMMEMORATION OF THE WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY
On 10th of October the World Mental Health Day was celebrated across the globe. The theme this year was “Mental Health in an Unequal World.” It was aimed at providing mental healthcare for all. The day provided an opportunity for everyone to talk about Mental Health; ways to break stigma, and the importance of seeking help when one is struggling with a mental health issue.
It is no doubt that we live in an unequal world with so much discrimination, stigma, unemployment, lack of support, limited access to housing, and poverty. These are great contributors to mental health challenges.
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health challenges and the world is currently facing a mental health crisis. This is evident with the increased rates of suicides, homicides, and people dying in bizarre circumstances.
We need to unlearn the notion that mental health looks and walks in a certain way. Anyone can be a candidate of a mental illness. We need to proactively address discrimination and stigma associated with mental illness, as these create a barrier for people to seek treatment.
Let us all work together to make mental healthcare for all a reality.