Today is World Mental Health Day; a day to talk about mental health and show everyone that mental health matters. It’s also a day to let people know that it’s okay to ask for help, no matter what you’re going through.
For over 70 years, the Mental Health Foundation have been working to make sure that mental health is treated on a par with physical health. The aim of WMHD is to raise awareness about mental health around the world and to support those experiencing mental health issues. World Mental Health Day is a chance to talk about mental health in general, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to talk about things and get help if you are struggling.
Some common statistics when it comes to Mental Health are that:
- 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year
- In England, 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (such as anxiety and depression) in any given week
- Children and adults in the lowest income bracket are 2-3 times more likely to develop mental health problems than in the highest bracket
- 38% of people with severe symptoms of mental health problems also have long-term physical conditions
- Asylum seekers are 5 times more likely to have mental health needs than the general population
These statistics, in particular the last one, have helped determine this year’s theme of ‘Mental Health is a Universal Human Right’. We must continue to address the inequalities in mental health and work towards good mental health for all, not just for some.
The Green Ribbon has become a symbol for World Mental Health Day; on WMHD people are asked to wear a green ribbon, or alternatively anything green, to show support.
You can buy a ribbon here and also find out the other ways that you can show your support this WMHD by clicking here.
