World Mental Health Day - Awareness Is Just The Beginning. Now It’s Time To Act!

“It’s okay not to be okay” - however cliched it may sound, it’s very true.

In today’s day and age, it’s practically impossible to have a conversation about health and wellness without a mention of mental health even though there has always been a stigma surrounding it. We can’t stress enough how important it is to discuss mental health openly, as many people still view mental health with a negative stigma.

Who can forget the Oscar-winning performance of the talented Cate Blanchett in the movie Blue Jasmine where we see her entire life unraveling in mental illness!

We are living in a time when our psychological well-being is under threat, so today in this blog we put the spotlight on mental health and all things associated with it.

Mental Health - What about it?

Mental health is crucial at every stage of life. It is all about our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. There are mental health specialists who can help people with anxiety, depression, addiction, bipolar disorder, and various other conditions that affect their thoughts, feelings, and behavior. It is a basic human right for all people. Everyone, irrespective of whoever and wherever they are, has a right to the highest attainable standard of mental health. 

World Health Organization describes Mental Health as:

“Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.”

Source: Shutterstock

Pandemonium During Pandemic

The entire world went through utter chaos and turmoil during COVID-19, and for many of us, it was reflected in our mental health. One of the good things that came out of it was the repeated conversations surrounding mental health. For an entire global population, it took a pandemic to generate mental health awareness, the importance of self-care strategies, and the need for coping mechanisms.

About World Mental Health Day

Every year World Mental Health Day is celebrated on the 10th of October. It was established by The World Federation for Mental Health and since then it has been observed every year. Its aim is to raise awareness in the global community about the criticality of mental health and the importance of taking action and creating lasting change.

The 2023 World Mental Health Day theme is ‘Mental health is a universal human right’.

Over the years, World Mental Health Day has gained momentum, thus becoming a platform for organizations, governments, and individuals to develop initiatives that help focus on the various aspects of mental care.

Read Also: World Heart Day 2023 - Everything You Need To Know

Significance of the Green Ribbon

Mental Health Awareness is represented internationally by the green ribbon and is often worn or displayed to show support for individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. While it may not be directly linked to World Mental Health Day, the green ribbon's significance aligns with the broader goals of raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.

Source: iStockPhoto

Importance of Talking About Mental Health

Truth be told, no one wants to talk about mental health. However, open dialogue about mental health can help people heal. The world is still in denial about everything concerning mental health - the conditions, treatment options, and the importance of prioritizing it as much as physical health.

• Reducing stigma: One of the biggest barriers to mental health treatment and support is the stigma attached to mental health conditions. The green ribbon signifies a commitment to reducing this stigma, making it easier for individuals to discuss their mental health and seek assistance without fear of judgment.
• Growing Concerns Surrounding Mental Health Disorders: The prevalence of some mental health disorders has been on the rise in the past few decades. According to the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS), around 25 million adults would need care for Depressive Disorder (DD) in India at any given time. As many people are affected by these issues, it proves that you are no longer alone in your struggles, and talking about mental health should be a more accepted norm.
• Promote Treatment And Lower The Rate of Suicides:  Of the several reasons why we need to speak out about mental health, this is arguably the most important one. Because mental health is such a difficult topic for many to talk about, too many people are not getting the treatment they require. In turn, their poor mental health could lead to suicide. According to a survey, over 90% of those who committed suicide had a psychiatric diagnosis at the time of death.

Five Reasons To Boost Your Mental Health

Improving mental health is essential for overall well-being. While these tips can be beneficial, it's important to remember that mental health is complex, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you're struggling with mental health issues, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Here are some general tips for improving mental health:

Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or any other condition, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional, such as a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. They can provide you with guidance, support, and treatment options tailored to your needs.

Stay Physically Active: Exercising regularly can have a positive impact on mental health. It releases endorphins, reduces stress, and improves mood. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.

Eat a Balanced Diet: Proper nutrition can affect your mood and energy levels. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can contribute to better mental health.

Source: iStockPhoto

Practice Stress Management: Chronic stress can take a toll on your mental health. Explore stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga.

Stay Connected: Social support is essential for mental well-being. Maintain relationships with friends and loved ones, and don't hesitate to reach out when you need support or someone to talk to.

Raising Funds For A Cause

Online crowdfunding has always been a great way to support individuals struggling with a paucity of funds for medical treatments. ImpactGuru is known for raising funds through dedicated communities. It provides a platform for donors from around the world to support a cause and make donations to it. ImpactGuru has successfully changed lives through timely contributions, fundraisers, and actions. 

If raising funds can save a life, it is a truly worthwhile endeavor. This World Mental Health Day together let’s promote good mental health for all!