October 10th, 2021 is World Mental Health Day. 

 

The objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues across the world and to provide more movement in the efforts to support mental health (WHO)

The theme of this year's World Mental Health Day, which was set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is 'Mental health in an unequal world'.

The meaning behind this years theme comes from the increasingly polarization of the world and the continuous lack of mental health resources and services. This year highlighted the many inequalities that remain in our world, race and ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, human rights and those who struggle with their mental health. All of these inequalities have a major impact on individuals around the world and ultimately promote a negative force on mental health. 

The World Federation for Mental Health highlights that between 75% to 95% of people with a mental disorder in low and middle-income countries are unable to access any services for mental health. The access to mental health services in high income countries is not much better. This difficulty to receive the support and resources you need is a result of the lack of investment that has been made in mental health. "The lack of investment in mental health is disproportionate to the overall health budget - this contributes to the mental health treatment gap."

 

How can you help? 

1. Educate yourself and those around you 

Education is the first step in promoting a more positive mental health culture. Here are some resources to educate yourself and others on mental health:

2. Talk about Mental Health 

Promoting awareness relies on each and everyone of us to do our part and have these conversations openly and freely from any stigma or preconceptions. In order to be a part of the change, we must have these conversations and promote others as well.  

• Listen to individuals share their stories and experiences on The Honest Hour Podcast 
• Use some of the unmind free resources across your social media platforms and email signatures, and spread the word.
• https://www.verywellmind.com/best-mental-health-podcasts-5097922

3. Check in on your friends, Check on The Homies 

One of the biggest aspects of struggling with your mental health is feeling isolated and powerless. You can never know what someone is struggling with mentally unless you reach out and see how they are doing. Believe me, it is far easier for you to check on those around you then it is for them to reach out. Check in on those around you, check on the homies and be the strength someone may feel they have lost. 

• Idontmind.com has created an incredible 10 minutes, 10 question guide for checking in on the people we love no matter where they are. 
• https://idontmind.com/journal/just-checking-in-ten-minutes-ten-questions

4. Contribute to the cause 

The theme this year is concentrated on the lack of resources and availability for support to everyone for their mental health. No matter your race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background or geographical location, mental health is health and support must be equal and available for everyone. Do your research, find an initiative that resonates with you and everyone, and give back.
Here are some of my favourite initiatives: 

 

5. Take your time, take care of yourself

As much as we should love and support the mental health of those around us. It is even more important to take the time to take care of yourself and think of your mental health. Life is hectic, especially this past year with the stressors that the pandemic has brought on to everyone. Take time today and everyday after to think about yourself and take care of your mind and mental health. 
Here are some ways you can take care of YOU and your mental health. Share these with friends to help them do the same.