Annually world mental health day falls on 10^th October. It is a day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. At the initiative of world federation of mental health, it was first celebrated on 1992. It is a window of opportunity for us to raise voice and awareness of mental health issues. This year’s theme for world mental health day is “suicide and suicide prevention”.

Every 40 seconds someone loses their lives to suicide. Globally every year more than 800,000 people take their own life and many more attempt to do it. And world mental health day aims to take action and change this.

One can take action by educating themselves about mental health and recognize the signs of mental issues. And give assistance to those in need. A person stuck on a mentally rainy season can be reminded that it takes both rain and sun to grow a flower. Once they overcome the rainy season, the blossom of the flower will be prominent.

According to WHO “If we don’t act urgently, by 2030 depression will be the leading illness globally”. So, we need to raise awareness and prevent this from happening. We can organize conversations with friends and family members about the importance of mental health.

We can remind the community that low battery means rest and self-care, self-harm would only leave permanent damage on the battery. We need to remind them that it is okay to seek help and reach out to people. Reaching out is always worth it. To be a part of it, let’s raise awareness and lend a hand for those in need.

                                                                        
Written by: Ali Arif
Student, Faculty of Education