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If you were born before the 2000s, you probably remember a time when mental health was a taboo subject—often associated with phrases like “off the deep end,” “nervous breakdown,” or “looney bin.”
Thankfully, things have changed. One positive outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic is that mental health is no longer a hidden topic; it’s now front and center, where it has always belonged.
That’s why, every year, one day—World Mental Health Day—is dedicated to checking in on how we’re really doing up [points to head] here. Because when it comes to mental health, it’s not just a conversation; it’s a movement.
What is World Mental Health Day?
In 1992, the World Federation for Mental Health recognized the need for more open conversations around mental well-being. To address this, they introduced a special day aimed at raising awareness and confronting the stigma.
So, when is World Mental Health Day? It’s celebrated annually on October 10th, with a new theme each year.
For instance, the 2013 theme focused on mental health in older adults. In 2019, the emphasis was on suicide prevention. By 2023, the theme highlighted mental health as a universal human right.
For World Mental Health Day 2024, today at October 10, the global campaign will focus on prioritizing mental health in the workplace. This is especially crucial, considering that depression and anxiety contribute to the loss of roughly 12 billion working days each year worldwide, costing businesses about $1 trillion in productivity.
So, think of World Mental Health Day as your annual check-in on your emotional and psychological well-being—because caring for your mind is just as important as caring for your body.
Why is it important?
The reality is, one in two people will experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lives, according to a major study conducted by Harvard Medical School and the University of Queensland. Essentially, if it’s not you, it’s someone close to you.
The impact of mental health issues extends beyond individuals. It can affect families, workplaces, and even entire communities.
Through public campaigns, educational events, and media coverage, every conversation contributes to shifting societal attitudes. As awareness grows, so does the likelihood that individuals will seek help, take care of themselves, and advocate for others—without fear of judgment.
How to help break the stigma of mental health
Emotions like anxiety and depression have long been stigmatized, labeled as something to hide. However, thanks to more open, constructive conversations, that stigma is gradually lifting.
Here are a few strategies from Sunrise Recovery to change the narrative:
1. Ditch the quick-fix mindset
We live in a culture obsessed with quick fixes. Feeling down? Take this pill, and voilà!—problem solved. As mental health doesn’t work that way. The focus should be on mind management.
“We can’t control the events, circumstances, and people in our lives,” she explains. “But we can learn to control what’s happening inside of us and how it plays out in the future.”
Viewing mental health as a problem to fix with a single solution can leave you feeling stuck.
2. Don’t avoid “negative” emotions
Anxiety, sadness, and frustration aren’t inherently bad. In fact, experiencing them is as normal as feeling peace, joy, and calmness.
This includes the uncomfortable ones. According to Sunrise, these uncomfortable feelings serve as your brain’s “warning signals”—like little red flags alerting you that something needs attention.
Instead of avoiding them, try to tune in and listen. Ask yourself:
- “Why am I feeling this emotion?”
- “What other emotions are tied to it?”
- “How are these emotions affecting my behavior?”
- “How are my feelings and behaviors connected to what’s happening in my body?”
- “What’s shaping my perspective?”
With time, this practice can foster emotional balance, helping you respond to these feelings rather than letting them control you.
3. Educate yourself and others
Many people have been taught to believe that mental health disorders are signs of a “broken brain.”—and many other experts—disagree with that perspective.
“It’s not helpful to think of depression and anxiety as brain diseases,” she explains. “That implies you’re stuck with a brain that’s flawed.”
This type of thinking is exactly why educating yourself on the complexities of mental health is so important. Mental health is influenced by experiences, trauma, and more.
Knowledge is power. The more you understand, the more equipped you are to help yourself and others—and the less daunting the topic of mental health becomes.
How you can Honor World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is a collective effort, and you can play an important role in fostering mental well-being for yourself and others.
Here are a few ways suggested by Sunrise Recovery:
- Join community events or workshops: Look for local gatherings that promote mental, physical, and emotional health, or even consider organizing one yourself. Activities such as yoga or creative outlets like art therapy can build connection and healing.
- Encourage open dialogue: Share your experiences or be an active listener as others share theirs. The more we talk about mental health, the closer we get to creating a culture of support and understanding.
- Provide educational resources: Offer information on mental health services, access to counseling, or direct people to platforms like NAMI or Mental Health America. Education is a crucial step in breaking the stigma.
- Incorporate self-care practices: Small acts like journaling, meditation, or music therapy can help manage emotions, reduce stress, and support overall well-being.
- Support loved ones year-round: Regularly check in on friends and family, creating a safe space for them to discuss their mental health. Being a consistent, non-judgmental support can make a significant impact.
Important note: If you or someone you know needs extra support, reaching out to a mental health professional is a powerful step toward healing.
Futureproof Your Well-Being
Mental health isn’t just something to focus on once a year—it deserves your daily attention. Sunrise Recovery offers several transformative programs designed to help you better manage your thoughts and emotions.
Each program offers a unique approach to achieving lasting emotional resilience.
By checking out our addiction rehab centers in Indiana, you’ll gain access to program previews and meditations to kick-start your mental well-being journey. Plus, you’ll join a vibrant community of individuals all working toward a healthier, more balanced life.
World Mental Health Day is a great place to begin, but it’s the steps you take afterward that truly make the difference.