The United Nations recognizes World Mental Health Day each year on 10 October, to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and to support those living with mental health conditions. The theme for 2023 is “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right”.
Mental health is an integral part of our general health and well-being, as well as a basic human right. Having good mental health means we are better able to connect, function, cope, and thrive. However, people living with mental health conditions often experience human rights violations, discrimination, and stigma. The result is that millions of people around the world suffer in silence and are greatly affected in their daily lives.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1 in 8 people across the world live with a mental health condition. Despite being prevalent in countries around the world, most societies neglect mental health and do not provide the care and support people need and deserve. While mental health conditions can be effectively treated at a relatively low cost, the gap between people needing care and those with access to care remains substantial and effective treatment coverage remains extremely low.
World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to strengthen our shared commitment in making mental health a priority. We work towards making everyone able to exercise their human rights and access affordable, quality mental health care and where people can participate fully in society, free from stigma and discrimination.
