World Mental Health Day is an international observance held annually on 10 October to raise awareness of the importance of mental health. Initiated in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, this special day addresses different dimensions of mental health through annually designated themes. Its primary objective is to increase awareness among individuals and communities about preserving mental well being reduce stigma associated with mental health and promote wider access to accessible and inclusive mental health services for all.

Purpose and Scope

World Mental Health Day aims to generate global awareness of the importance of mental health. Mental health is defined as the emotional psychological and social well being of individuals. It encompasses the ability to cope with stress manage relationships be productive and adapt to life’s challenges. Within this framework the preservation of mental health is important not only at the individual level but also at the societal level.

History and Themes

Since 1992 World Mental Health Day has been observed annually on 10 October under themes determined by the World Federation for Mental Health. For example the theme for 2023 was “Mental health is a universal human right” emphasizing that the protection and improvement of mental health constitute a fundamental right. The theme for 2025 was announced as “Mental health in humanitarian emergencies” focusing on the impact of natural disasters conflicts and public health crises on mental health.

The Universal Dimension of Mental Health

Mental health is recognized as a fundamental human right. In this context every individual has the right to access the highest standard of mental health care regardless of their location or circumstances. Ensuring this right requires protecting individuals from risk factors affecting mental health providing accessible acceptable and quality services and enabling people to live freely and be accepted within their communities.

Global Situation and the Example of Türkiye

The prevalence of mental disorders is increasing globally. A significant portion of the working population in Europe reports mental illnesses while in Türkiye the prevalence of mental disorders among the population aged 18 and above is notably high. Years lived with disability due to mental disorders have increased. The burden of mental illnesses has emerged as a major public health issue particularly in conjunction with widespread conditions such as depression. Mental illnesses negatively affect quality of life and individuals with mental illnesses experience disparities in life expectancy.

Mental Health in Humanitarian Emergencies

Natural disasters conflicts wars migration and other humanitarian crises increase the risk of emotional distress and mental disorders among individuals. In such emergencies one in five people may experience mental health problems. Mental health support in humanitarian emergencies is vital for sustaining resilience supporting recovery and facilitating individuals’ reintegration into society. Therefore during crises it is essential that mental health services remain accessible and social resilience be strengthened. Evidence based and community oriented interventions contribute both to meeting immediate mental health needs and to long term recovery.

Challenges and Barriers

Individuals with mental illnesses may face discrimination stigmatization and social exclusion. These issues can negatively affect access to mental health services. Fear of stigmatization can deter people from seeking help and particularly reduces utilization of mental health services among men. Key barriers to expanding mental health services include insufficient funding and shortages of trained professionals.

Recent Developments and Requirements

Global developments such as aging populations climate crises wars and migration are creating new demands in the field of mental health. In this context disciplines such as geropsychiatry eco-psychiatry and geo-psychiatry are gaining importance. Access to good living conditions safety food and shelter are fundamental requirements for mental health.

International Call to Action

World Mental Health Day calls upon individuals communities civil society organizations and government institutions to take steps toward protecting and promoting mental health. This day underscores that the protection of mental health is a fundamental human right and draws attention to the importance of efforts to ensure access to this right at the international level.

^{10 October World Mental Health Day (Osmaniye Provincial Health Directorate)}