World Mental Health Day 2023
October 10th is World Mental Health Day, which allows us to come together under the theme "Mental health is a universal right." The aim is to enhance understanding, raise awareness, and take action to support and protect everyone's mental health as an inherent human right. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and it's crucial to be prepared to seek help when needed. Good mental health is essential for our overall well-being and is interconnected with our physical health, relationships, and livelihoods.
Globally, one in eight individuals are living with mental health conditions, which can have profound effects on their lives and how they engage with others. Adolescents and young people are also increasingly affected by mental health conditions. Having a mental health condition should never be a reason to deny someone their human rights or exclude them from decisions regarding their health. Nevertheless, individuals with mental health conditions continue to face various human rights violations worldwide. Many are marginalized and face discrimination, while others struggle to access the mental health care they require, often encountering care that violates their human rights.
Please consider joining the World Mental Health Day 2023 campaign to learn more about your fundamental right to mental health and how to advocate for the rights of others. Here are some steps you can take:
Use person-first language to prioritize the person over their condition when discussing mental health.
Save these important numbers in your contacts for easy access in times of need:
· 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat.
· The Trevor Project: Call 866-488-7386, text 678678 or chat at thetrevorproject.org/get-help.
· National Sexual Assault Hotline: Call 800-656-4673 (HOPE) or chat online at online.rainn.org
Explore opportunities for Mental Health First Aid Training in your community to become better equipped to help others.
Don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you or someone you know requires support.
Let's work together to ensure that mental health is recognized and protected as a universal human right.