The World Health Organisation (WHO) recognises World Mental Health Day on the 10th of October every year. This year’s theme is ‘mental health for all.’ The past few months have brought on many challenges and the vast majority of people are experiencing even greater social isolation than before. It is expected that the need for mental health support will substantially increase in the coming months and years.

Read also: Protecting Your Mental Health in Times of Panic

Mental Health for All

The World Health Organisation in collaboration with governments and partnering foundations are all campaigning for quality, accessible primary health care that is available for all. It is a human right, and universal health coverage is urgently required as the world grapples with the current pandemic.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation, stated: “The world is accepting the concept of universal health coverage. Mental health must be an integral part of UHC. Nobody should be denied access to mental health care because she or he is poor or lives in a remote place.”

Taking Care of Your Wellbeing

There are lots of things that we can do to look after ourselves and to help others who may need some extra support and care.

“I believe emotional distress reflects a person’s inner turmoil.” Says Dr Rajpal, a psychiatrist in London.

“This can be helped and the pain can be reduced. Far too often, either just talk therapy or medication has been thought to be the panacea for all ills. A human being needs to be heard, understood and then offered help.”

1. Stay informed by listening to the advice and recommendations from your local authorities.

2. Introduce or keep up with a daily routine by including exercise, enough sleep, work-life balance, healthy meals and personal hygiene.

3. Minimise your newsfeed by being selective about how much news you watch, read or listen to.  

4. Asking for help is not always easy, but it is important to seek help when you need it. Talk to your local health provider, call a helpline or you can start by confiding in friend or family member.

5. If you are able to, offer support to people in your community who need it. Remember to be kind and to refrain from discriminating against those who are suffering from mental health issues.

Read also: Quirky Wellness Rituals From Around the World

Feature image created: Unsplash

Dominique Heusdens