WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY
10th October marks World Mental Health Day, a day designed to encourage individuals and authorities to take action and create lasting change within mental health care. This year's theme is ‘mental health for all’ which is especially prescient given the toll Covid-19 has had on society. The goal is to help people to come out of their shell and to make them aware that it is no more a stigma or fear of being ostracised from society. Everyone can make a contribution by coming out openly and sharing their experiences to ensure that people dealing with similar mental health problems can live better lives with dignity.
The first World Mental Health Day an initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health was held on 10th October 1992 and since then each year the focus has been to increase awareness of those who suffer from issues pertaining to mental health. World Mental Health Day brings all the concerned people working on mental health issues like Psychologists, Neurologists, and, Counsellors, to inform the general public about their body of work, and what the need of the hour is to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.
In her message to commemorate World Mental Health day, President of the World Federation for Mental Health Dr Ingrid Daniels said “The current worldwide pandemic arose against an already dire mental health landscape that saw mental health conditions on the rise across the globe. About 450 million people live with mental disorders that are among the leading causes of ill-health and disability worldwide (WHO'S World Health Report, 2001). One person in every four will be affected by a mental disorder at some stage of their lives while mental, neurological and substance use disorders exact a high toll on health outcomes, accounting for 13% of the total global burden of disease (WHO, 2012).
The World Health Organization (2018) states that every 40 seconds someone dies by suicide. Annually, this represents over 800 000 people that die by suicide,
Mental health is a human right – it’s time that mental health is available for all. Quality, accessible primary health care is the foundation for universal health coverage and is urgently required as the world grapples with the current health emergency. We therefore need to make mental health a reality for all – for everyone, everywhere”
which is more than people dying by war and homicide put together. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among
15 to 29-year-olds while 79% of global suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Every suicide is a tragedy that affects families, communities and entire countries and has long-lasting and devastating effects on the people left behind.” She also added “Mental health is a human right – it's time that mental health is available for all. Quality, accessible primary health care is the foundation for universal health coverage and is urgently required as the world grapples with the current health emergency. We therefore need to make mental health a reality for all – for everyone, everywhere.”
Naveka Perera an Integrative Counsellor and Member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP) is a UK based professional counsellor. She is of the opinion that mental health awareness needs to be increased in Sri Lanka and instead of taking it lightly more resources need to be diverted towards tackling mental health issues.
People should be educated on mental health issues and reduce the stigma. Identifying signs of mental stress Perera says “Conflict, and uncertainty are possible causes that may trigger signs of mental health issues. Depression, anxiety, irritability, confusion, inability to make decisions, paranoia, change in sleeping patterns, social withdrawal and extreme mood changes, lack of self worth or trust and feelings of being overwhelmed are indicators of mental health issues.”
Explaining ways to look after mental health Perera says “The only constant in life is change” says the philosopher Heraclitus. If one starts acknowledging this, we will be better equipped to adapt to the constant changes that life throws at us.
At times like this more than any other, it is important to stay motivated and find your purpose in life. Remember that it is OK to have a bad day but be alert when it starts to negatively impact your lifestyle or mood.
Physical well-being helps promote mental well-being. Eat healthy, keep hydrated and exercise regularly. Take time to relax, stay connected with friends and family. If you are in lockdown and unable to work, try and learn new skills like cooking, language or alternate employment skills. In essence, do what you enjoy and whatever makes you happy.”
Perera also emphasized that it is important to identify when someone needs professional help. “Counselling is not just for people who think they're ‘messed up' and is not a quick fix. Through engaging in therapy, you may gain self-awareness and acceptance, offer emotional stability and help develop more meaningful relationships. Talking therapy is an invaluable tool for discovering yourself and reaching your full potential. In today's context, virtual interaction is available for you to interact from home across borders” she said. “A therapeutic relationship will work through the challenges and help bring about a positive change. As the adage goes, ‘A problem shared is a problem halved'.
“Counselling is a supportive space to discuss difficulties, share feelings and either to examine possible ways forward or to take the time to re-write your life's script by looking more deeply at one's past or present. A counsellor will offer a therapeutic relationship.”