World Mental Health Day 2020 takes place on October 10. The purpose of world mental health day is to help educate people on what constitutes good mental health and how to deal with mental health issues. Today, over 300 million people throughout the world suffer from depression alone. This doesn’t take into account the number of individuals dealing with numerous other mental health conditions. Yet, there is still often a stigma attached to having a mental illness. This prevents many from seeking the help they need. This year’s theme is to help increase awareness to lower the risk of suicide. This year, make a point of finding something you can do to help spread awareness in yourself or others of this important topic. Contact a mental health center like Viewpoint Dual Recovery to get involved this year.
Volunteer
Look for an organization that helps educate others on mental health issues and volunteer to man the phones or pass out literature. The more the word gets out, the less likely the number of suicide rates will rise. The person you reach today may be the life you save tomorrow.
Check on Your Friends
Not only should you check on your friends during World Mental Health Day but think about neighbors who may not have a family. The elderly are often alone and struggle with depressive disorders. Look for people who could use a friendly word or a smile to brighten their day.
Practice Self-Care
Your mental health is important. Find something to do today to indulge yourself. Get a haircut, take a long relaxing bath, or take the day off to explore nature. Spend some time being good to yourself. Has there been something you have always wanted to learn? Now may be the time to sign up for a class or check out some books on the subject.
Spread Some Kindness
It is often the smallest acts of kindness that mean the most. Share a meal with a homeless person, compliment a stranger, carry groceries for someone. Acts of kindness don’t need to cost a lot of money or time yet they may be priceless to someone dealing with depression. Your simple act of kindness may be the one thing that helps someone else hold on and look for a positive change. We never know what hides behind the smiles of strangers, or even our friends and family.
Remind Yourself That You Matter
Not only should you remind yourself today that you matter, but you should also do it every day. Spread that message to everyone you meet. We all have a purpose and worth yet we so often forget to notice our own. You don’t have to create priceless works of art, find a cure for a disease, or even win an award to know your life matters. The fact that you exist is enough proof that you are important. Sometimes we are good at telling others this but forget to remind ourselves.
Educate Yourself
Take time to read a book or watch a movie that can help you understand mental illness better. With your own understanding, you will be a better advocate for others. You can find a library full of information in books or online. Several movies that delve into the subject of mental illness have been created. A Brilliant Mind is one such movie.
Seek Help
Don’t allow a mental health issue to destroy you or your life. If you need help and haven’t already done so, reach out and contact someone like Viewpoint Dual Recovery Center. One phone call to 855.746.3633 may be all it takes to make this year’s World Mental Health Day the best one ever for yourself and those who love you. You are worth it!
