World Mental Health Day is being observed to raise awareness about mental health issues around the world and mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
This year’s theme of the World Mental Health Day, Mental Health is a Universal Human Right, calls for WHO, Member States and partners to accelerate efforts in mental health in a human-rights-based approach.
On this day, here are the following facts about mental health that will encourage you to discuss these issues with those you care about.
- Many factors can lead to mental illness, including genetics, physical illness or injury, and traumatic life experiences.
- Mental illnesses can affect people of any age, race, religion, or income. A mental illness is a medical condition that disrupts a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, and ability to relate to others and daily functioning.
- Many people do not seek treatment for mental illness due to the associated stigma. Only 44% of adults with diagnosable mental illnesses receive treatment.
- By addressing risk factors such as trauma, it is possible to prevent certain mental health disorders, especially in children and adolescents.
- 70-90% of people who seek proper treatment for mental health disorders witness a significant reduction in symptoms.
- More than 700,000 people die by suicide every year. Suicide accounts for 1 in 100 deaths globally. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in individuals aged 15-29 years.
- Common signs of mental health issues include extreme mood swings, changes in eating habits, excessive worrying or fear, problems concentrating, and avoiding friends or social activities.
Tips to boost mental health
- Make a social connection especially face-to-face a priority.
- Find purpose and meaning.
- Eat a brain-healthy diet to support strong mental health.
- Don’t skimp on sleep.
- Take up a relaxation practice.
