Stigma and discrimination can worsen our mental health and so many are in this trap. It’s time we made it a priority.
The first World Mental Health Day theme was ‘Improving the Quality of Mental Health Services throughout the World’ in 1994. As the years passed, more countries got involved and, consequently, so did civilians as the perception of mental health became more synonymous with human rights.
The themes for World Mental Health Day expanded along with the times. Women, children, health, work, trauma, suicide, and so much more became a part of the conversation, and today, the average citizen is more knowledgeable in regards to mental health.
This year the focus is on “Make mental health for all a global priority.”
We make mental health a priority by first taking action.
How to observe World Mental Health Day?
Do group therapy in the workplace:
Register for a group therapy workshop at your place of work. This can allow you and your co-workers to express themselves in a safe environment. We tend to hold onto the idea that pushing through and carrying on is the best way, but issues can arise unexpectedly if they aren’t properly dealt with.
Practice self-care:
There are many changes you can make to your life that can continue beyond World Mental Health Day. Developing a regular sleep routine, adjusting your diet to healthier options, taking lunch breaks, and going on long walks are just some of the options. The point of self-care is to understand your specific needs. Find time to ask yourself what you want and go for it.
Follow the theme:
Each year, there’s a new theme and even if it doesn’t directly involve your struggles, you can still learn from it. Spend some time and research the subject. Awareness extends beyond yourself and it could provide you with the proper tools to better understand others.
Share your pain:
This day reminds you that whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. Too often we think that we’re the only ones facing a hard time. It’s uplifting to know that other people have gone through it and made it out to the other end. It reminds you that you can overcome your own pain.
Proper treatment:
As our understanding of mental health grows, so does our ability to seek proper treatment. With the right therapist and necessary medication, you can operate on a more efficient level. The more accepting we are and the more funding that’s put into research and mental healthcare, the greater the global impact.
It takes every one of us to make the world a healthier, liveable place, let’s do so one day at a time.
kindly share in the comment section on how you handle mental health in your environment.