Good mental health is critical to overall well-being. People around the world suffer mentally and emotionally from war and conflict, physical illness, stress, addiction, abuse, toxic environments, plagues, diseases and more. The COVID pandemic was more than just physical. It took a mental and emotional toll as well on thousands. Soldiers returning from war suffer from PTSD, but so do those in toxic relationships. Many suffer in silence. Emotional pain and mental illness is often not as obvious as physical pain and illness and it is thus easily overlooked or dismissed and neglected. But it is never-the-less very real. The purpose of World Mental Health Day is to help create awareness of this reality. The green ribbon is the international symbol of mental health awareness.
Since 1992, October 10 has been observed annually as World Mental Health Day. It was established by the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries. This international day is dedicated to raising global awareness of mental health education, mental health issues and create a better understanding of the needs surrounding mental health. It also emphasizes the importance of mental health as a universal human right.
According to Harvard medical school: One in two people on this planet will experience a mental health disorder at some point in their life. The figure is higher for students and young people as 60% of university students struggle with mental health usually depression or anxiety.
Wikimedia states, “Mental health is essential to overall wellbeing, yet millions of people still face barriers to care. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30 million people lack access to the mental health and substance use treatment they need. These aren’t just numbers—they’re our neighbors, coworkers, friends and family. The impact goes beyond individuals, touching workplaces, schools and communities.” In the USA alone 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness each year. 1 in 6 youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year. 1 in 20 adults experience serious mental illness each year. 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among students.
The fact is that today our world is facing a global mental health crisis, largely due to internet and social media addiction. Over 200 million people across this planet suffer from internet and social media addiction. More than half of all students have said that social media made them feel less confident about themselves. Social media can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation and depression. Many kids have experienced cyber bullying. Teens who spend 5 hours of more on their devices are 70% more likely to have a risk factor for suicide. Over 90% of parents think social media is having a negative impact of their children’s mental health. As a result the surgeon general suggests adding a warning label to internet platforms that states: “social media can be detrimental to the mental health of young people.”
World Mental Health Day provides an opportunity to learn more about mental health and break down negative attitudes and beliefs surrounding it. So today, check with others to see how they are doing. Be kind and compassionate. Today is also a good day to take inventory of your own emotional and psychological well being. Caring for your mind is just as important as caring for your body.
Like physical health, good mental health is vital to living a holistic life. LifeTalk Radio is here to help by nurturing positive mental health globally. Our encouraging hope-filled programs and uplifting music provide a positive environment where mental and spiritual health can thrive. Invite others to listen to LifeTalk Radio. Use our free sharing cards to let others in your community support their mental health. We also provide a safe and positive environment where the mental health of your kids can develop successfully. Encourage your children to listen to LifeTalkKids.net. Invite other children and teens in your community to listen to LifeTalkKids.net. Use our free kids sharing cards and stickers to raise awareness. Let’s make a positive difference in the lives of others.
