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MCC Daily Tribune

World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day is on October 10 and as our understanding of mental health grows, we grow along with it. Mental health has come a long way since the early nineties when the World Federation of Mental Health (WFMH) officially established the day. Our self-awareness and sensitivity towards it have changed things for the better. Our language surrounding mental health has improved as words like “crazy” and “lunatic” are used less flippantly and we come to better understand that they can be unintentionally hurtful and stigmatizing. While we’ve learned a lot, there’s still so much more we can do to evolve as a society.

HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

  1. Do group therapy in the workplace

    Register for a group therapy workshop at your place of work. This can allow you and your coworkers to express themselves in a safe environment. We tend to hold onto the idea that pushing through and carrying on is the best way, but issues can arise unexpectedly if they aren't properly dealt with.

  2. Practice self-care

    There are many changes you can make to your life that can continue beyond World Mental Health Day. Developing a regular sleep routine, adjusting your diet to healthier options, taking lunch breaks, and going on long walks are just some of the options. The point of self-care is to understand your specific needs. Find time to ask yourself what you want and go for it.

  3. Follow the theme

    Each year, there’s a new theme and even if it doesn’t directly involve your struggles, you can still learn from it. Spend some time and research the subject. Awareness extends beyond yourself and it could provide you with the proper tools to better understand others.

5 SURPRISING FACTS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH

  1. Unholy spirit

    It's believed in certain cultures that mental health problems are caused by spirit possession.

  2. Global numbers

    Globally, one in four people will need mental health care in their lives.

  3. National numbers

    More than 43 million Americans battle with mental health.

  4. Youth depression

    Depression among youth has risen from 5.9% to 8.2% since 2012.

  5. Limitations

    Most Americans lack access to proper healthcare treatment.

WHY WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY IS IMPORTANT

  1. Identify the problem

    The idea of the mind is an abstract concept and this day allows us to think about our thoughts. We’re evolving beyond outdated perceptions and releasing the stigma of mental health so that we can properly diagnose it and take care of ourselves. With the burden and fear removed from mental health issues, the battle becomes considerably easier.

  2. Share your pain

    This day reminds you that whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. Too often we think that we’re the only ones facing a hard time. It’s uplifting to know that other people have gone through it and made it out to the other end. It reminds you that you can overcome your own pain.

  3. Proper treatment

    As our understanding of mental health grows, so does our ability to seek proper treatment. With the right therapist and necessary medication, you can operate on a more efficient level. The more accepting we are and the more funding that’s put into research and mental healthcare, the greater the global impact.

Sarah Benedict
MCC Wellness Council
10/10/2022