What is World Mental Health Day?

World Mental Health Day, established by the World Health Organisation (WHO), is observed annually on October 10. It aims to raise global awareness and foster open discussions about mental health without fear or judgment. This year, World Mental Health Day falls on Thursday, October 10, 2024. It provides an opportunity for everyone—individuals, organisations, and governments—to reflect on what can be done to make mental health care more accessible worldwide.

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The Importance of World Mental Health Day in 2024

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and addressing it is essential. The pandemic has brought mental health to the forefront, with more people now open to discussing their struggles. However, many are still battling mental health issues. A Harvard Business Review study found that 85% of respondents experienced a decline in their mental well-being during the pandemic. This underscores the ongoing need for mental health support, especially in the workplace. 

In India, mental health is a growing concern. According to a Deloitte study, nearly 80% of the Indian workforce faces some degree of mental health issues, but only 20% seek professional help. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the global economy loses $1 trillion per year due to depression and anxiety. In India, over 14% of the population suffers from mental disorders.

A Brief History of World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day was first celebrated on October 10, 1992, initiated by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) to raise awareness and reduce stigma. Initially, it didn’t focus on a specific theme, but by 1994, the day had its first official theme: Improving the Quality of Mental Health Services Throughout the World.

Why is Mental Health in the Workplace Critical in 2024?

The workplace can significantly impact mental health, both positively and negatively. Increasing workloads, job insecurity, remote work challenges, and the blurred lines between work and personal life contribute to stress, anxiety, and burnout. According to WHO, anxiety and depression cost the global economy $1 trillion annually due to lost productivity. 

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How Employers Can Support Mental Health in the Workplace

Businesses must prioritise mental health to create a healthy and productive work environment. Examples of such companies in India include TCS's Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides discreet counselling and support for mental health difficulties. Unilever has created a global mental health programme called "WeCare," which includes mental health training for management, access to counselling services, and mental health awareness campaigns and more. Here are practical steps employers can take: 

1. Encourage Open Conversations
   Breaking the stigma around mental health starts with open dialogue. Employers should foster a culture where employees feel safe discussing mental health without fear of judgment.
   How to Implement:
   • Hold workshops and mental health awareness programs.
   • Encourage leaders to share their own mental health experiences.
   • Offer anonymous feedback channels for employees to express concerns.
2. Provide Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
   EAPs give employees access to mental health resources, including counselling and therapy.
   How to Implement:
   • Partner with mental health professionals to offer on-site or virtual counselling.
   • Promote digital mental health tools, especially for remote workers.
   • Regularly remind employees about the availability of these services.
3. Promote Work-Life Balance
   Poor work-life balance is a significant cause of stress. Employers should encourage employees to set clear boundaries and take time to recharge.
   How to Implement:
   • Encourage taking regular breaks and vacations.
   • Set realistic deadlines and expectations.
   • Foster a culture that respects personal time.
4. Foster a Positive Work Environment
   A supportive and inclusive workplace reduces stress and promotes mental well-being.
   How to Implement:
   • Celebrate achievements and acknowledge contributions.
   • Promote diversity and inclusivity.
   • Organize team-building and mental health awareness activities.

Last year's World Mental Health Day Themes

Here are the themes of the World Mental Health Day:

1996: Women and Mental Health

1997: Children and Mental Health

1998: Mental Health and Human Rights

1999: Mental Health and Aging

2000-01: Mental Health and Work

2002: Effects of Trauma and Violence on Children and Adolescents

2003: Emotional Behaviour Disorders of Children and Adolescents

2004: Relationship Between Physical and Mental Health: Co-occurring Disorders

2005: Mental and Physical Health Across the Life Span

2006: Building Awareness - Reducing Risk: Mental Illness and Suicide

2007:Mental Health in a Changing World: The Impact of Culture and Diversity

2008: Making Mental Health a Global Priority: Scaling up Services through Citizen Advocacy and Action

2009: Mental Health in Primary Care: Enhancing Treatment and Promoting Mental Health

2010: Mental Health and Chronic Physical Illnesses

2011: The Great Push: Investing in Mental Health

2012: Depression: A Global Crisis

2013: Mental Health and Older Adults

2014:Living with Schizophrenia

2015: Dignity in Mental Health

2016: Psychological and Mental Health First Aid

2017: Mental Health in Workplace

2018: Young People and Mental Health in Changing World

2019: Suicide Prevention

2020: Move for mental health: Increased investment in mental health

2021: Mental health for all: let's make it a reality

2022: Make mental health & well-being for all a global priority 

2023: Mental health is a universal human right.

Conclusion on World Mental Health Day 2024

The theme of World Mental Health Day 2024, “It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” highlights the growing need for businesses to focus on mental health. Ignoring mental health at work is no longer an option, as stress, burnout, and anxiety continue to rise. Employers and employees must work together to create a mentally healthy workplace where well-being is a priority.

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FAQs on World Mental Health Day 2024

1. When is the World Mental Health Day?

World Mental Health Day is celebrated each year on October 10 to promote awareness of mental health issues.

2. What is the objective of celebrating World Mental Health Day?

World Mental Health Day is intended to raise global awareness of mental health issues. The goal of the day is to raise awareness of psychological health and the issues that come with it, which are increasingly socially stigmatised.

3. How do I commemorate World Mental Health Day?

Consider contributing to or working at a nearby crisis centre. A fantastic way to mark this day is to visit a friend or family member enduring difficulties. As you listen, offer to assist them with any tasks that may be difficult, such as bringing them meals or cleaning. Another approach to becoming engaged is to educate yourself on mental health concerns. To learn more, read a book or watch a documentary.

4. Who started the World Mental Health Day?

World Mental Health Day was launched in 1992 by the World Federation of Mental Health (WFMH), led by Richard Hunter, then-deputy secretary-general.

5. What could you share on social media on World Mental Health Day?

In your World Mental Health Day post, you can share a personal story, provide connections to mental health services, or present statistics and other mental health-related information.

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