World Mental Health Day
October 10th 2022 is World Mental Health Day! This year's theme is ‘Making mental health and well-being a priority for all.'
We often get asked lots of questions about the day; what it is and why it's important. So, we thought we'd compile a list of our most frequently asked questions for you!
What is World Mental Health Day?
The day is a globally recognised event looking at and celebrating the progression of mental health treatment, and identifying what areas can be improved. The aim of raising awareness is to normalise getting treatment for mental health, as much as you would for physical health.
When was the first World Mental Health Day?
The first one took place in 1992, making this year its 30th anniversary!
Who started it?
It was started by the World Federation for Mental Health which, like the World Health Organisation, covers over 150 countries.
What are some of the past themes?
World Mental Health Day covers different themes each year; this year’s theme is ‘Making mental health and wellbeing a priority for all’. Previous themes have included ‘Dignity in Mental Health’ and 'Mental Health in the Workplace'. It has also looked previously at improving mental health services across the globe.
Why is it important?
This day is important for everyone. Whether you have suffered with mental health, you know someone who has, or you’re just more widely aware of the subject, celebrating world mental health day spreads awareness and knowledge of the topic. It also gives the opportunity for important information to be shared and spoken about.
How can I mark the day?
Use the day as a reminder to look after yourself! All too often our mental health takes a back seat and we don’t pay much attention to it. World Mental Health Day can be a great reminder for you to do something for yourself! Whether this be going on a nice long walk, having a longer lay-in than usual, or treating yourself to a really fancy bubble bath – schedule in some time just for you.
Share the love on social media! Lots of people and organisations will be putting out content for the event, including us, which you can find here! Raise awareness and show your support by sharing this. We’re so lucky to have global connections through social media, so what better time to use this than World Mental Health Day?
Check-in with the people closest to you! It can be difficult to start a conversation about mental health, and even if people feel brave enough to start, there’s a worry about where to take the conversation. As there will be a lot of awareness and conversation about mental health on the day, use this opportunity to chat with your loved ones about their experiences with mental health.
