World Mental Health Day is observed on 10th October with the Theme “Make Mental Health & Well-Being for All a Global Priority”
The objective is to promote global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma.
It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries.
Mental health
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and can make a contribution to his or her community.’
According to India’s latest National Mental Health Survey, 2015-16 nearly 150 million people in India need a mental healthcare support system.
An adequate number of the mental health workforce in India.
Poor awareness about the symptoms of mental illness and social stigma leads to depression and social isolation.
Steps Taken by the Government
Mental healthcare is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
The government is implementing the National Mental Health Program (NMHP) to address mental disorders and the shortage of qualified professionals.
Mental HealthCare Act 2017 guarantees every affected person access to mental healthcare to protect, promote and fulfill the rights of such persons during the delivery of mental healthcare.
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched a 24/7 toll-free helpline ‘Kiran’ to provide support to people facing anxiety, stress, depression, suicidal thoughts and other mental health concerns.
