World Mental Health Day: History, significance and theme for 2023

World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10

World Mental Health Day is observed every year on October 10 to raise awareness about mental health and well-being. The day provides an opportunity for individuals, organisations, and communities to come together to address mental health issues, reduce stigma surrounding psychological disorders and promote mental well-being.

History

World Mental Health Day was first observed in 1992, initiated by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH). Their goal was to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote open discussions on the topic. October 10 was chosen as the date for World Mental Health Day to coincide with the anniversary of the founding of the WFMH, which was established in 1948.

Over the years, World Mental Health Day has gained recognition and participation from countries across the world. Organisations and governments began to organise seminars and workshops on October 10 to mark World Mental Health Day.

The World Health Organization recognises and supports World Mental Health Day as an important global event. WHO often collaborates with the WFMH and other mental health organizations to raise awareness about mental health issues.

Significance and theme for 2023

The theme for World Mental Health Day 2023 is ‘Mental health is a universal human right’. According to WHO, observing this day is a call to “improve knowledge, raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.”

Mental health conditions can have far-reaching effects on a person’s wellbeing. Mental health issues can impact a person’s lifestyle, connections with others and ability to earn a livelihood. “All over the world, people with mental health conditions continue to experience a wide range of human rights violations. Many are excluded from community life and discriminated against, while many more cannot access the mental health care they need or can only access care that violates their human rights,” the WHO notes.

World Mental Health Day is therefore an opportunity to initiate wider discussions on the fallout of mental health issues and how to combat them. While World Mental Health Day is an annual event, its impact extends beyond a single day. The goal is to encourage conversations and actions that lead to improved mental health for individuals and communities throughout the year.