Every year on 10th October, the world observes World Mental Health Day to promote global mental health education, awareness, and advocacy against social stigma. The overall goal of World Mental Health Day is to raise global awareness of mental health issues and mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
People suffering from mental illnesses are more likely to die prematurely. According to WHO, depression is the most common mental health illness and one of the leading causes of disability, while suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 15 to 29.
The theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day is ‘Mental health in an unequal world’.
History and Importance of World Mental Health Day:
The World Federation for Mental Health established World Mental Health Day on October 10, 1992, as an annual activity. The Day allows all stakeholders working on mental health issues to discuss their work and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people all over the world.