There is no health without mental health

As many of you may not know, World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 every year, since it was first introduced by the World Federation of Mental Health (WFMH) in 1982. Its main aim is to “celebrate awareness for the global community in an empathetic way, with a unifying voice, helping those feel hopeful by empowering them to take action and to create lasting change.”

This year, the primary focus is on suicide prevention.

Yes, that was a few weeks ago. No, we should never stop talking about it.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), over 800,000 people die of suicide annually and has become the second leading cause of death among 15 to 29-year olds globally.

Every 40 seconds, someone loses their life to suicide. It is a global public health problem. But, it is also preventable. 

World Mental Health Day may have passed, but for some people, their struggle is far from over. Do your part in raising awareness and knowledge of this problem. Spend just 40 seconds of your time to start a conversation and spread the message - that mental health issues affect everyone, regardless of their age or ethnicity. That suicidal thoughts are prevalent in more people than you think. And, that suicide can be prevented. 

Not all who face mental health issues are suicidal, but most, not all, of those who commit suicide battle with mental health issues.

To find out more, visit WFMH and WHO.