Importance of 10 October Mental Health Day 

One out of every eight people is living with a mental health disorder. Mental health issues are a lot more common than we think and they can have serious repercussions on one’s quality of life. In addition to the mental, emotional, and social upheaval it presents, it also comes with a fair amount of stigma, making life even harder for sufferers.

Mental health day is thus important for spreading awareness about mental health, advocating support for people who suffer from such issues, and reducing the stigma around them.

In this article, we take a closer look at mental health, World Mental Health Day, and how to get help for mental health concerns.

History and Significance of 10 October, Mental Health Day

10 October, Mental Health Day gives us a platform to talk about the importance of mental health and related issues.

But how did it come to be? 

World Mental Health Day is an initiative of the World Federation of Mental Health(WFMH). It started on 10 October 1992 with the intent of changing how the world views mental health. The occasion has since been celebrated by thousands of supporters every year on the same date.

It is observed to eliminate the stigma and create awareness by showing people that they’re not alone in their experiences and that there are treatments that can help them overcome their challenges.

It’s also an excellent opportunity to make mental healthcare a reality for people worldwide. Efforts are made to protect and improve the mental health of individuals — particularly those in low and middle-income communities. 

What Is Being Done About Mental Health Globally?

Mental health problems such as anxiety, mood, and psychotic disorders can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, or race.

Three of the biggest challenges that mental health sufferers face are insufficient access to mental healthcare, lack of financial support, and social stigma. In response to these needs, the WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health has made it its goal to offer quality and affordable healthcare to 100 million more people by 2023. 

This is a great start, but more is required to increase awareness and support for mental health. World Mental Health Day is a great opportunity to have important conversations about this issue and generate support for those in need.

Do You Need Help or Know Someone Who Does? Here’s What You Should Do

Many of us experience mental health issues but there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Each case is different so the right treatment and management are unique for each person.

Despite these differences, there are things you can do to help restore mental health and get the help you need:

• Share what you’re going through with someone you trust. It could be your friends, your family members, or even a trusted coworker. This will help you express what you feel and give others a chance to help you. 
• Improve your lifestyle by eating a proper diet, drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, and maintaining an active lifestyle. Healthy practices will help you form positive relationships with your body and mind so you can better cope with mental health problems.
• Engage in hobbies you enjoy. Doing things you love can not only lower your stress levels but also improve your psychological functioning. 
• Seek professional help. If making lifestyle changes and being kinder to your body and mind aren’t helping, consult a counselor for more specific and individualized treatment. 

If someone you care about is experiencing mental health problems:

• Learn about their condition and educate yourself about the treatment options available. Gently guide and encourage them to get the help they need. If it’s appropriate, offer to visit a mental healthcare professional with them.
• Talk to them about how they’re feeling and listen to them without being judgemental. 
• Remind them of something they used to love doing and offer to do it with them. 

Having someone encouraging to talk to who is after their best interests can make a huge difference in the management of mental health problems.

 Make a Positive Impact This 10th October, World Mental Health Day With IMANA

Islamic Medical Association of North America (IMANA) believes that healthcare should be a priority and that everyone, regardless of financial capacity, should have access to it.

In line with our commitment to mental health, we provide access to mental healthcare services, including a free mental health professionals directory and a list of resources. We hope to encourage support for this important cause by making it an extension of the services we provide. 

If you are a mental health professional who would like to be a speaker at one of our events, you can fill out this form to apply. 

With our collective efforts and commitment, we can make a difference in mental healthcare and patients everywhere.