Today we celebrate World Mental Health Day – a day created to quite simply educate the public about mental health and decrease the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

So what is World Mental Health Day and how can you get involved? Each year the day is marked with World Mental Health Day posts, activities, and activism surrounding mental health.

History of World Mental Health Day and 2023 Theme

World Mental Health Day was created to educate the public about mental health and decrease the stigma surrounding mental health issues. While it was first celebrated in 1992, a theme was added for the first time in 1994, which was “Improving the Quality of Mental Health Services Around the World.”

Every year, there has been a specific theme to accompany the day. Last year, this was “Making Mental Health & Well-Being for All a Global Priority.” It sought to focus on those who had other long-term health conditions, single parents, and marginalised groups. All of these groups are at a higher risk for mental health issues.

The WHO has announced that for 2023, the theme will be ‘Mental health is a universal human right’ Their statement references improving knowledge, raising awareness and driving actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.

Importance of Mental Health Awareness

World Mental Health Day is important because it raises awareness about mental health, educates people, and helps them find resources.

Normalising mental health issues can decrease the stigma around them. Although this is improving, many people still experience shame around going to therapy or talking about their feelings. Campaigns such as this can encourage everyone to care for their mental health.

Educating the public about the warning signs of mental health issues can help keep people safe. When people are aware of the warning signs of poor mental health, they can have necessary conversations with the people around them. They can also recognise when they or someone in their lives needs professional help.

Ways You Can Celebrate World Mental Health Day

So how can you participate this year? There are multiple ways to get involved and advocate for better mental health access everywhere.

One way is to consider volunteering at a local crisis centre or donating to one in your community. Another great way to celebrate this day is to check on a friend or loved one who has been struggling. Listen to them and offer to bring them dinner, help them out in some way, or do another task that might be difficult for them at the moment.

You can also get involved by educating yourself on mental illnesses. You could read a book or watch a documentary to learn more. If you experience mental illness yourself, you might take this opportunity to share your story, or simply to take extra time for self-care.

How Brands Can Participate

Companies and brands can also get involved in World Mental Health Day. Many components of this day take place on social media, and more brands are embracing activism as part of their social media presence.

This could be as simple as posting a statement about your brand’s stance on mental health. You could even share steps you’ve taken to provide resources for your employees or other ways you can support their mental health.

Join other cutting-edge brands by posting on social media under the hashtag #WorldMentalHealthDay. Even better, use this day to announce some kind of commitment to supporting mental health. This could be a new policy or financial support of nonprofit groups.

Spread the love!

Whether you’re celebrating World Mental Health Day as an individual or with your company or brand, choosing to be involved in this day is a great way to advocate for mental health and increase awareness. Together by doing our bit to spread the word, we can make the world a happier place, not just today but everyday!