World Mental Health Day: Know the history, theme for 2021

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recognises World Mental Health Day on October 10 every year. The theme of this year's World Mental Health Day, set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is 'Mental health in an unequal world'.

World Mental Health Day is also a chance to talk about mental health in general and how we need to look after it.

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World Mental Health Day: History

World Mental Health Day was first observed on October 10, 1992 as an annual activity of World Federation for Mental Health. The day initially did not have a specific theme and its aim was to promote mental health and educate people on relevant issues. In 1994, for the first time, a theme for the day was used which was “Improving the Quality of Mental Health Services throughout the World.”

In some countries, the programmes stretches over several days, or a week, or even in some cases the entire month.

World Mental Health Day: Significance

The aim of the day is to spread awareness, educate and reduce the stigma associated with mental health in society. Mental health is an important aspect of life. Mental illness adversely affects the lives of those suffering as well as those around them.

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People are often scared to share their plight with mental illness due to some sort of stigma attached to it. However, the perception surrounding mental health issues is now required to be changed.

We should take it as an opportunity to share, discuss how to take care of mental health and deal with society’s misconceptions.

-PTC News