Kathmandu: The World Mental Health Day is being celebrated today to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
The day celebration had begun since 1992 as a powerful reminder that there is no health without mental health. This year’s campaign focuses on the urgent need to support the mental health and psychosocial needs of people affected by natural disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies.
Supporting the mental well-being of individuals during such crises is not just important – it saves lives, gives people the strength to cope, the space to heal and to recover and rebuild not only as individuals but as communities, the United Nations (UN) states.
The global governance body has urged everyone, including government officials, health and social care providers, school staff and community groups to come together to protect the wellbeing of everyone.
“By investing in evidence and community-based interventions, we can address immediate mental health needs, foster long-term recovery, and empower people and communities to rebuild their lives and thrive”, it is stated.
The World Health Organization (WHO) calls for all member-state to intensify collective efforts to create a world where mental health is valued, protected, and accessible for all, especially in the face of adversity.