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October 10th is World Mental Health Day.
The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
This day allows stakeholders working in mental health around the world to talk about their work and “what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.”
World Health Organization
What PatientsLikeMe is Asking on October 10th
On World Mental Health Day we are asking for you to become an advocate not just for your own mental health but for the mental health of those in your personal community. Do you know family members or friends that are in need of mental health support? Introduce them to the resources on the PLM site that are listed in this post. This way, we can create an even bigger community of those looking to improve their mental health.
We don’t have a “referral” program, but we are asking for your referrals to extend our reach to help more individuals around the world. Join us as we combat the stigma of mental health!
Mental Health is a Human Right
The theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day campaign is mental health as a universal human right. Everyone, no matter your income, age, background, ethnicity etc. deserves access to quality mental health care. “This includes the right to be protected from mental health risks, the right to available, accessible, acceptable, and good quality care, and the right to liberty, independence, and inclusion in the community.”
Currently, WHO reports “one in eight people globally are living with mental health conditions.” Good mental health is critical to the success of all people. Individuals suffering from mental health conditions may struggle with social connections, employment, money management, everyday tasks, and beyond.
Challenging the Stigma of Mental Health
Maybe you’ve seen depictions on television or in the media of “crazy” or “dangerous” people. Oftentimes, the stigma associated with mental illness is at play. When people are depicted as incompetent as opposed to unwell, it reinforces stereotypes about people with mental health conditions.
This stigma makes access to quality care more difficult. It also often prevents people from seeking the help and care they need to get healthy. We at PatientsLikeMe are challenging the stigma through the community.
What is PatientsLikeMe Doing for Mental Health?
PatientsLikeMe has a slew of mental health resources and communities that are combating the stigma associated with seeking quality care through connection.
When we understand that we are not alone, we are more likely to seek the care we need to combat mental health challenges and attain a more fulfilling life. Are you new to our community? Check out these resources to start talking about your mental health condition(s).
Forums and Resources
- Mental and Behavioral Health Forum: A forum for all mental health conversations.
- Depression Forum: A forum where you can talk with people who also know what it is like to experience various forms of depression.
- Depression Resources: Blog posts focused on depression and depression-adjacent conditions.
- Mental Health and Behavior Resources: Blog posts focused on general mental health and wellness.
- Crisis Resources: These are resources that may be of help if you are in trouble. This information is not a substitute for professional advice or care. If you need help, please reach out to your doctor, one of the organizations in these resources, another local organization near you, a family member or friend, or dial 911 (or 999 in the UK, 112 in the EU, 000 in Australia).
Get Involved
If you are already an advocate for PLM, we are asking this World Mental Health Day for you to help us grow our community of support. Get involved in the conversation on your social media using the hashtag #WorldMentalHealthDay.
By reaching out to others you know who are suffering, we can create a larger community of resources, experiences, and ideas to help you get the care you need. New to medication? We discuss this on the site. Unclear as to what your next steps are for your specific condition? Someone from our community likely has the guidance and support you are seeking.
Join the World Mental Health Day 2023 campaign to learn more about your basic right to mental health as well as how to protect the rights of others.”
World Health Organization
If you’re in need of connection, consider joining our Mental Health and Behavior Forum on PLM. We have a great community of other individuals who understand what you are going through and are eager to chat with you.