Generated by ChatGPT and edited by Beth Ayers, Family Support Lead
October 8, 2024
Mental health has long been an overlooked aspect of overall health. However, with growing awareness, advocacy, and research, the conversation around mental health is evolving. One of the major milestones in this ongoing movement is World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10th. This day serves as a platform for advocacy, awareness, and mobilization efforts to promote mental health and to provide mental health support.
The Origins of World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day was first observed in 1992, initiated by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), an organization that has been working for over seventy years to promote global mental health awareness and treatment. The idea behind this day is simple: to raise awareness of mental health issues around the globe and to advocate for the importance of mental healthcare.
Initially, there was no specific theme for the day, and it was solely focused on general mental health education and advocacy. However, starting in 1994, the day took on more specific themes to address diverse aspects of mental health. This year’s theme is “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.”
On WFMH’s website, Tsuyoshi Akiyama, WFMH President writes, “Employed adults spend more time working than any other activity during their waking hours. In a myriad ways, and at its best, work can provide a livelihood and be a source of meaning, purpose, and joy. However, for too many people, work falls far short of its potential, failing to enhance our lives and detracting from our mental health and well-being in ways that result in excessive distress and mental ill health.
“Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are pervasive in workplaces globally, impacting productivity, attendance, and overall performance. When left untreated, the staggering economic cost is estimated at US$1 trillion annually by the [World Health Organization].”
Tsuyoshi Akiyama goes on to say, “The data consistently demonstrate that prioritizing workplace mental health is good for people, companies, and communities.
“World Mental Health Day 2024 will highlight various aspects of mental health at work, from workplace conditions and stress management to the importance of social inclusion and empowerment. The goal is clear: to champion mental health in the workplace and build best practices that create cultures where workers have the potential to contribute productively and thrive.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Safe, healthy working environments can act as a protective factor for mental health. Unhealthy conditions including stigma, discrimination, and exposure to risks like harassment and other poor working conditions, can pose significant risks, affecting mental health, overall quality of life and consequently participation or productivity at work. With 60% of the global population in work, urgent action is needed to ensure work prevents risks to mental health and protects and supports mental health at work.”
Why Mental Health Matters
Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how we think, feel, and act, and it plays a vital role in how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Good mental health is just as important as physical health, yet the world often treats them differently.
Globally, mental health disorders are rising. According to the WHO, around one in four people will be affected by a mental health condition at some point in their life. This can range from disorders like depression and anxiety to bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated mental health challenges, as isolation, uncertainty, and loss have led to increased stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms worldwide. This makes it more urgent than ever to address mental health concerns on a global scale and particularly in the workplace.
The Importance of Raising Awareness
One of the primary goals of World Mental Health Day is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Many people suffering from mental health issues often feel ashamed or afraid to seek help, fearing judgment or discrimination. This stigma can prevent individuals from getting the treatment they need, which can worsen their condition over time.
By encouraging open conversations about mental health and normalizing discussions around it, World Mental Health Day helps dismantle the myths and misconceptions that surround mental illness. When society acknowledges that mental health is just as important as physical health, people are more likely to seek help when they need it, which ultimately leads to better mental health outcomes.
The Global Mental Health Crisis
Despite progress, the state of global mental health remains concerning. Millions of people around the world are still without access to adequate mental health services. In many countries, mental health resources are severely limited or non-existent, particularly in low- and middle-income nations. This is compounded by the fact that many individuals struggling with mental health conditions may not even seek help due to cultural norms, fear of being judged, or lack of awareness.
According to the WHO, mental, neurological, and substance use disorders make up 10% of the global burden of disease and are responsible for 30% of the non-fatal disease burden. Depression alone affects more than 264 million people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of disability.
Suicide is another alarming concern, with close to 800,000 people dying by suicide every year, which is approximately one person every 40 seconds. Despite these staggering numbers, mental health is still woefully underfunded, with less than 2% of national health budgets being allocated to mental health in most countries. World Mental Health Day is a call for greater investment in mental health infrastructure and resources. Governments, policymakers, and health organizations need to prioritize mental health in their policies and programs.
The Importance of Self-Care and Support Systems
While advocating for systemic change is critical, individual self-care practices are also crucial for maintaining mental health. Some strategies to foster better mental health include:
- Developing a routine- Structure can bring a sense of stability in uncertain times.
- Physical activity- Regular exercise can reduce stress and improve mood.
- Staying connected- Maintaining strong social ties can offer support during difficult times.
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques- Practices like meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress and anxiety.
- Seeking help when needed- If someone is struggling with their mental health, professional help from a counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist can be invaluable.
Support systems, whether from friends, family, or mental health professionals, also play a vital role in an individual's mental health. Building strong networks of support encourages those struggling to seek help and find the necessary resources to heal.
The Future of Mental Health Advocacy
The future of mental health advocacy in the workplace is poised for significant transformation, driven by the increasing recognition of mental well-being as a critical factor in employee productivity and overall organizational success. Companies are moving beyond superficial wellness programs to create more comprehensive mental health strategies that include proactive support, flexible working conditions, and access to professional mental health services. In the future, workplaces will likely see a stronger integration of mental health into corporate policies, with leadership taking an active role in fostering a culture of openness and support. This could include mental health training for managers, the inclusion of mental health days, and expanded benefits that cover mental health treatment. With advancements in technology, telehealth, and data-driven wellness platforms, employers will have more tools to monitor and enhance the mental health of their workforce, making mental well-being a priority alongside physical health.
Conclusion
World Mental Health Day is more than just a symbolic observance; it is a powerful call to action for individuals, communities, and governments alike to prioritize mental health. By raising awareness, reducing stigma, and advocating for better mental health policies and services, this global movement is bringing us closer to a world where we recognize that mental health is as important as physical health. And maybe someday, mental health and physical health will not be separated but will be seen together as overall health.
As we move forward, it is essential to remember that mental health is not just the absence of mental illness, but the presence of positive well-being. World Mental Health Day invites us to reflect on this and work together to create a world where mental health is valued, protected, and nurtured for everyone, including in the workplace.