This Sunday, October 10, 2021 is World Mental Health Day – a day that raises awareness for global mental health issues.
Established in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, this program has shined a light on mental health issues that tend to get shoved under the rug – issues that so many of our friends, neighbors, coworkers are going through, no matter where you live. World Mental Health Day initiatives have focused on improving the quality of mental health services around the world, children’s mental health, the effects of trauma and violence on children & adults and mental health and chronic physical illness, among others.
It’s not simply a one-day a year event, but it is a reminder that all over the world, we may lead drastically different lives, but there are some things we all struggle with.
Because when you pull all the facts out into the open, it’s harder to ignore. Check out the statistics:
5% of adults around the world suffer from depression – approximately 280 million people worldwide suffer from the disease.
Depression is one of the leading causes of disability – as well as a major contributor to disease.
More than 700,000 people die by suicide every year. It’s the fourth leading cause of death among adults 15 – 29 years old.
More than 45 million people worldwide suffer from bipolar disorder.
Women are more likely to suffer from depression as men.
One in 11 people who have experienced war or conflict within the last decade suffer from moderate to severe mental health disorders.
Canada has the highest rates of PTSD, with nine percent of Canadians suffering in their lifetimes.
2.3% of the populations struggles with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
The World Health Organization provides mental health services around the world, with a particular focus on countries that have been affected by large-scale emergencies, such as Bangladesh, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Nigeria, South Sudan, the Syrian Arab Republic, Turkey, Ukraine and the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Depression and anxiety become more common as people get older.
Leading up to World Mental Health it’s important to not only know the facts, but to spread the world on where to seek help. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, please know there are resources available.