World Mental Health Day

Every year on October 10, World Mental Health Day is celebrated to draw the attention of the international community to this area. According to the World Health Organization's 2022 Mental Health Report, one in eight people in the world lives with a mental disorder. Currently, many residents of Ukraine are in a constant state of stress, which can also lead to mental health problems in the future. To prevent this, you should take care of yourself and your loved ones right now.

The World Federation of Mental Health (WMFH) has announced "Mental health - a universal human right" as the theme of this year. The focus of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, apart from the official theme, is on the stigma surrounding mental illness. Stigma can lead to social isolation and discrimination, which can negatively affect all areas of life and violate the rights of people with mental disorders.

What you should know about mental health, how to overcome stigma and how to take care of yourself and loved ones to prevent the development of mental health problems:

• Mental health is part of our life. Mental health problems are natural, just like physical health problems. And seeking support is the right of every person.
• Stigma can arise from misconceptions and many people still believe that mental illness is a sign of weakness. However, seeking help for mental health problems is self-care and a person's personal choice.
• Fear of judgment, discrimination and social isolation often makes people hide their problems and delay seeking professional help. Talking about mental health helps remove shame and encourages people to seek support from loved ones and professionals.
• Mental health problems are not a person's fault. It is worth promoting compassion and support for those who are going through difficult times.
• Recovery starts with understanding: Stigma can prevent people from talking about their mental health problems with friends, family or colleagues. This can lead to deterioration of her condition. Therefore, it is worth understanding and supporting a person on the way to recovery.
• Words matter: choose words that express compassion and empathy for people with mental health issues.
• Build communities of support: Stigma related to mental health affects not only a person's well-being, but also their social relationships, education, employment opportunities and access to health care. It is necessary to create a safe environment for such people. Families, workplaces, schools and online platforms can foster a culture of understanding and caring.
• Make self-care a priority, because it is extremely important for maintaining mental health. You should always find time for physical exercises, hobbies and communication with loved ones.
• Caring for carers: Support for carers of people with mental health problems is also important.
• It's for everyone: mental health problems can affect people regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or socio-economic status. Therefore, it is worth treating this with understanding.
• Millions of people around the world face mental health problems. And asking for help is a manifestation of courage, which leads to understanding and respect for such people.

Resource:
• American Psychiatric Association website: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination
• WHO campaign against stigma: https://www.emro.who.int/mnh/campaigns/anti-stigma-campaign.html?format=html