10th October marks World Mental Health Day, and this year’s theme, set by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), is ‘Mental health is a universal human right.’
Every year, on October 10th, people worldwide come together to mark World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to recognising mental health as a fundamental human right. This year’s theme emphasises that “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right,” underlining the significance of ensuring that mental well-being is accessible and equitable for all.
The universal right to mental health
This year’s theme hones in on the point that, just as we all have the right to physical health and well-being, mental health should be an inherent part of our collective human rights. The theme is a call to action, reminding us that access to mental health support and services should not be a privilege afforded to a few but a right that every individual, regardless of their background, should enjoy. Here are some key considerations to reinforce this notion:
- Equal access: Mental health services should be available to everyone without discrimination. Eliminating barriers such as stigma, cost, and geographical limitations is essential to ensure equal access to care.
- Education and awareness: Promoting awareness and educating the public about mental health as a fundamental right is crucial. This includes dispelling myths and misconceptions and encouraging open conversations.
- Advocacy: Advocating for mental health policies that prioritise the rights of individuals to access quality care and support is a crucial step. It involves lobbying for changes in healthcare systems and addressing disparities in mental health services.
- Empowerment: Empowering individuals to recognise their right to mental well-being and to seek help when needed is a key element of this theme. Self-advocacy and breaking the silence surrounding mental health challenges are essential.
- Community support: Building supportive communities is integral to recognising mental health as a universal right. Communities that offer understanding, empathy, and resources can help individuals cope with challenges and build resilience.
Raising awareness
The WFMH works to raise awareness of mental health and drives positive change for everyone’s mental health. It’s also a chance to talk about mental health, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to get help if you are struggling. World Mental Health Day 2023 serves as a global platform to reaffirm that mental health is not a luxury but a universal human right. It’s a call to action for governments, healthcare providers, organisations, and individuals to work together to ensure that mental health support and services are accessible to all, without discrimination or stigma.
By recognising and promoting mental health as a universal human right, we take a significant step toward creating a world where every person’s mental well-being is valued and protected. Let us use this year’s World Mental Health Day to celebrate the progress made and commit to further efforts to ensure that mental health is a right, not a privilege, for all members of our global community.
Mental health support at Telefónica Tech
At Telefónica Tech, we understand the importance of creating a strong support network for our people, where no one is afraid to ask for help when they need it. Incremental is committed to ending the stigma around mental health by creating an inclusive, supportive working environment for all Incrementalists. There are multiple different activities and support systems in place to promote health and wellness inside and outside of the workplace including: health and wellness group and mental health first aid training. If you would like to find out more about Telefónica Tech’s approach to mental health, read this blog. If you would like to join Telefónica Tech in raising funds for the Mental Health Foundation, you can donate here.