Attitudes towards mental health are changing, thankfully, but more still needs to be done to raise awareness and help people struggling with their mental health.
World Mental Health Day
Today, Wednesday October 10th, is World Mental Health Day. According to the World Health Organisation more than 350 million people globally have depression. Many people don’t acknowledge they are ill and fail to seek treatment. The WHO is calling for an end to the stigmisation of depression and mental disorders, and is seeking better access to treatment to all those who need it.
Not surprisingly the global economic downturn which has led to job losses and pressure on incomes, relationships and lifestyles, has caused a rise in depression and other mental health conditions. Depression is a top priority for the WHO and we can all play our part in this.
If you see someone struggling or perhaps notice a change in a friend or loved one’s behaviour, try to help. The love and support of family and friends can make a difference. Telling someone with depression or mental disorder to “pull themselves together” is never the answer. Just like with any physical illness the road to recovery takes time and patience on all sides. If you are suffering there is no shame in admitting it. If you had a broken limb you would go to the doctors or hospital wouldn’t you? It would take time to mend, but it would get better.
With 350 million people having depression it is a common disorder and there is help available.
http://video.who.int/streaming/NMH/MSD/COPR_depression_01OCT2012.wmv