The 10th of October is World Mental Health Day. In this blog, we’ll explore the transformative impact this event has on the world – and what you can do to help spread the word. 

Key takeaways: 

• World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10th 
• It aims to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and create a more compassionate society
• Mental health is just as important as physical health
• Support groups can help individuals feel less lonely and judged

What is World Mental Health Day?

Thousands of people around the globe suffer from poor mental health, and the majority of those do so in silence. But it doesn’t have to be that way. World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10th to help reduce stigma, raise awareness, and drive a positive change in the realm of mental health. This gives society a chance to open a wider conversation and encourage people to seek help. 

Understanding mental health

Mental health refers to an individual’s emotional, social, and psychological well-being. When a person’s mental health is impaired, they may encounter difficulties when it comes to being productive, maintaining healthy relationships, and making sound decisions. 

Many individuals who suffer from mental health do so in silence. In our society, mental health is too often stigmatized. Sadly, individuals with mental health issues can be labeled as dangerous, unpredictable, or even weak. 

Social stigma in relation to mental health only further exacerbates the issues people face. Rather than creating an inclusive environment in which people with mental health issues can express their feelings and seek help, individuals are faced with negativity, discrimination, and prejudice. 

Importance of mental health awareness

Contrary to popular belief, mental health is just as important as physical health. Without a good grip on your mental health, you can’t enjoy your life to the fullest. Therefore, raising awareness and encouraging wider conversations about mental health is essential for public wellness. 

By reducing the social stigma surrounding mental health and raising awareness on a wider level, we can educate others about the prevalence of these conditions and the benefits of seeking help. Knowing how to recognize early warning signs can lead to faster interventions and better outcomes. If we can learn how to spot the symptoms of poor mental health, we can offer our loved ones the support they need and help those who are seriously struggling. 

World Mental Health Day also highlights the importance of advocacy and support groups. In these carefully curated environments, individuals can freely share their experiences and gain support from other individuals who find themselves in similar situations. 

Support groups can be found both online and in person, making it easier for people suffering from poor mental health to connect with those who share familiar challenges. Some individuals may feel more comfortable sharing their stories from the comfort of their homes while others may prefer engaging in physical interactions. The availability of both options helps support a wide range of needs and preferences.

History and evolution of World Mental Health Day

The 10th of October was established as World Mental Health Day by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992 to help increase global awareness and advocacy for this pressing issue. Prior to this date, mental health was rarely spoken about openly or freely. In the years since the inaugural World Mental Health Day, which focused on the theme of “Positive Mental Health and AIDS,” there has been a significant increase in global events and campaigns, as well as policy changes and improved services in relation to mental health. These include:

• Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (2008): a law that requires insurers to provide the same coverage for mental health disorders as they do for physical health conditions. 
• Affordable Care Act (2010): an act that required insurance plans to cover mental health as an essential health benefit. 
• The World Health Organization’s Mental Health Action Plan (2013-2020): a plan aimed at promoting mental well-being, improving health care, and reducing stigma. 

Each year, the WHO chooses a different theme to celebrate on World Mental Health Day. This year, the theme is “Mental health is a universal human right,” focusing on the importance of accessibility. Everyone has the right to obtain the highest standard of mental health and the right to high-quality care. 

Now that you know all about World Mental Health Day, it’s up to you to spread positivity and raise awareness. And there are plenty of easy ways to get started. You can launch a social media campaign, speak to your office about incorporating support programs, or organize a mental health walk to raise funds for charity. Anything you can do, no matter how small it may seem, can help advance the goal of a more accepting society.

Making mental health more manageable 

Financial stress brought on by the high cost of prescription drugs can make managing a mental health condition harder than it needs to be. Dealing with a mental health condition is tough enough as it is. The last thing you want to be worrying about is how you’re going to afford your prescription medication. Luckily, help is just a mouse click away. 

ModRN Health can help you save up to 90% on the cost of your prescriptions. All you need to do is sign up for a free account, use our price-comparison tool, find the best deals in your area, and start saving money. And while you’re saving money, you’ll also be earning rewards points for gift cards to your favorite stores. 

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