On October 10th of every year, Heartland Alliance International (HAI) celebrates World Mental Health Day to raise awareness of mental health issues and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. Over the past two years, the Covid-19 pandemic has not only revealed enormous health inequities, but it has also exacerbated existing mental health inequities. It is no wonder this year’s theme is, “Mental Health in an Unequal World.”
The ongoing pandemic has had a major impact on everyone’s mental health. We know that high levels of anxiety, fear, isolation, and uncertainty are widespread as the world struggles to build back stronger and healthier. We also know of the persistent inequality in access to mental health care for marginalized groups, especially those with uncertain legal status, people living in remote areas, and individuals and families in forced displacement – the very people we support with opportunities to heal, access justice, and thrive.
In honor of World Mental Health Day, HAI urges governments, stakeholders, and civil society to commit to scaling up the quality and accessibility of mental health services at all levels and across all regions of the world. We similarly encourage people to speak up, talk more, and check in on those around you. Things may not always be fine for someone else and it’s important to ensure people know they are not alone.
HAI’s global team of mental health experts is also hosting community awareness sessions in Colombia, Iraq, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to promote mental health and wellbeing. Together, we aim to increase knowledge, reduce stigma, promote help-seeking behaviors, and build healthy communities of support and understanding. And together, we can make mental health care for all a reality!
Browse photos from HAI’s World Mental Health Day Celebrations across the Globe!
