On October 10th 2019, World Mental Health Day (WMHD) turns 27. Started in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), this annual event is a cause worth getting behind.
Its overall aim is to raise awareness of mental health issues and promote positive change.
This year, “suicide prevention” is the key theme of WMHD.
Suicide prevention
According to the World Health Organisation, over 800,000 people die each year by suicide. That makes it the No.1 cause of death among fifteen to twenty-nine year-olds.
As suicide rates grow worldwide, the WFMH want you to join their campaign to help make a real difference. Through their theme of suicide prevention, the WFMH is hoping that governments the world over take heed and make it an agenda priority.
How to look after your mental health
While maintaining your mental health is of vital importance, there are days when life can catch up with you. Below are ways that you can look after your mental health when those days arise:
Ask for help: Speak to someone. It can be a family member, a partner, or a friend. Asking for help is often the most important step.
Sleep: Sleep can work wonders. It regulates the chemicals in our brain that manage our emotions and moods. While speaking about your problems remains important, sleep can help you get back to being you.
Good food: A balanced diet isn’t just good for your body, it’s good for your mind. Eat well and you’ll notice a positive change.
How you can get involved
There are several ways you can show your support and get involved with World Mental Health Day 2019.
Here are some of your options:
Green ribbon: Join the Mental Health Foundation movement by wearing a green ribbon, the international symbol for mental health awareness. All proceeds go to helping those who need it most. You can order your badge here.
Tea & Talk: Pop on the kettle and raise funds for WMHD with a Tea & Talk event in your workplace. Invite and encourage friends to donate and start a conversation that matters. If you need a nudge in the direction of ideas, click here.
Social media: Use the hashtag #worldmentalhealthday to help raise awareness. You can also follow WMHD’s social media channels.
Need our help?
If you would like further complimentary advice on mental health from an expert, our advisors are ready to take your call any time day or night. Call us on 0818 923 923 or request a callback here.
