Mental health is something every single one of us has to deal with at some point in our lives. For some, mental health symptoms may be temporary, but for others, they may be something that has to be dealt with every single day. With the constant stigma and misinformation out there, it can be difficult for those dealing with mental health problems to speak up or get the help they need. This is one of the many reasons why World Mental Health Day exists. Stay tuned to learn more about this day, what it's for, and how to participate.

Now, what is World Mental Health Day?

World Mental Health Day is recognized on the 10th of October every year. This day reminds everyone that mental health is just as important as our physical health. It also focuses on understanding mental health around the world and encourages conversations. This day also promotes listening to and involving people living with mental illnesses in designing treatments.

One of the most common treatments used for mental health is inpatient treatment. Unfortunately, this treatment has had many issues in the past, including being isolating for the individuals and inadequate or harmful care. Because of this, many push for deinstitutionalization. Deinstitutionalization pushes for care where individuals are able to stay in their communities and their rights are respected. As of now, the move to community-based care is slow. According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 10 countries have moved from institutional care to community care. About half of reported psychiatric admissions are involuntary, and 23% of those admissions last more than a year. These types of situations are the reason World Mental Health Day is so important. We cannot truly understand mental health unless we involve those affected in important decisions and conversations.

Now onto how to participate in World Mental Health Day.

There are many ways to participate on this day. One great way to participate is by educating ourselves on mental health. Information can be found on non-profit organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). If you're interested in webinars, the Global Mental Health Network (GMHN) is a great place to check out. Communities also create events to recognize this day, so seeing if your community is hosting something is a good idea as well.

If you're comfortable sharing your own mental health stories, it can help reduce some of the stigma and normalize speaking out. Advocating for resources at work is also a great way to help normalize mental health conversations. This can be done by asking for stress management skills or wellness events for employees.

Doing something for yourself on this day is another great way to participate. This can be done by going on a walk, taking a break from your routine, or anything that helps you relax. Checking in on loved ones not only shows you care, but it shows them they are not alone in dealing with their mental health.

Lastly, there is donating to mental health organizations. Mental health organizations offer a multitude of services such as counseling and hotlines. Donating helps fund these resources and allows help to reach those who need it.

The most important thing on this day is to focus on mental health and to push for everyone to receive high-quality and respectful care.

Some Helpful Resources:

Mental Illness Awareness Week - NAMI

What is World Mental Health Day? Plus, 7 ways to celebrate - Calm

World Mental Health Day - WHO

Sources:

Editorial Team, C. (2024, October). Calm blog. Calm Blog. https://www.calm.com/blog/world-mental-health-day

Global Mental Health Action Network. (2020). Global Mental Health Action Network. https://gmhan.org/upcoming-webinars

Mental illness awareness week | NAMI. (2023, April 27). Nami.Org. https://www.nami.org/stay-connected/events/awareness-events/mental-illness-awareness-week/

NAMI Oregon - A family-based, grassroots support and advocacy organization. (2017). NAMI Oregon. https://namior.org/

World mental health day 2026. (2026). Who.Int. https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-mental-health-day/2026

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