The United Nations (UN)’s World Mental Health Day (WMHD) is annually observed across the globe on October 10 to raise awareness about mental health around the world and to mobilize efforts to support those experiencing mental health issues.
- The theme for World Mental Health Day 2022 is “Make Mental Health For All a Global Priority.”
Symbol of Mental Health Day: The green ribbon is the international symbol of mental health awareness.
i.The theme was announced by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH).
ii.Since 2013, an annual global campaign for WMHD has been organised by World Health Organization (WHO).
Background:
i.The World Mental Health Day was first started as an annual activity of the World Federation for Mental Health by the then Deputy Secretary-General Richard Hunter.
ii.World Mental Health Day was observed for the first time on 10 October 1992.
World Mental Health Day campaigns:
i.The WHO organizes various events and activities every year during the month of October.
ii.It highlights the importance of mental health and mental health care across various countries and also inspires the global citizenry to support the cause of mental health.
WHO’s Efforts:
i.In 2018 Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO identified mental health as an area that needed accelerated action, and established the WHO’s Special initiative for Mental Health, covering a period of 5 years (2019-2023).
- Goal: 100 million more people have access to quality and affordable mental health care by 2023.
Mental Health in India:
i.According to a WHO report, between 1990 and 2017, one in seven people from India have suffered mental illness such as depression, anxiety and other severe conditions.
ii.In 2007, India ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
iii.KIRAN (1800-599-0019) – it is a toll free helpline number launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to provide support to people facing anxiety, stress, depression, suicidal thoughts and other mental health concerns.
Manodarpan Initiative- It was launched by the Ministry of Education under Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan to provide psychosocial support to students, family members and teachers for their mental health and well-being during the times of Covid pandemic.
About World Federation for Mental Health(WFMH):
President– Ingrid Daniels (South Africa)
Established -1948
Headquarters– Texas, United States of America (USA)
