‘The wound is the place where the Light enters you.’
– Rumi
As we mark World Mental Health Day 2024, we reflect on the importance of mental well-being, not just as an individual journey, but as a shared responsibility. Mental health is something that touches us all, yet it remains under-discussed and often misunderstood. The stigma and patriarchy surrounding mental health continue to keep too many people suffering in silence, especially in regions where talking about mental illness is still considered taboo. It’s high time we need to break the silence and embrace on a journey of healing and becoming the best versions of ourselves, both physically and mentally!
Mental Health Day 2024
World Mental Health Day serves as a global reminder to open discussions about mental health. For too long, stigma and mental health have gone hand in hand, creating barriers for those in need of support. Events like Mental Health Day encourage communities worldwide to challenge mental health stigma and help normalize the conversation around mental well-being.
Pakistan’s Contribution to Mental Health Awareness
In Pakistan, where the awareness of mental health issues has been steadily growing, this day is a powerful opportunity to confront long-held cultural beliefs that label mental health issues as a weakness. The burden of stigmatization in mental health often prevents individuals from seeking help, and that needs to change.
However, in recent years, there has been so much work done primarily on the institutional level. On October 11, 2022, Pakistan launched the Mental Health & Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) model to mark World Mental Health Day. This multi-layered, digitized framework is designed to be rights-based, scalable, and sustainable, in alignment with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
The launch event was graced by the Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, along with representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Health Minister of Balochistan, WHO officials, and a large gathering of students. This initiative signifies a crucial step in Pakistan’s commitment to mental health, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being for all.
Mental Health and Stigmatization
World Mental Health Day also shines a light on the global scope of mental illness. Whether it’s called Mental Health Awareness Day, or even Mental Illness Day, the focus remains the same—to raise awareness about mental health disorders and challenge the stigma attached to them. Many people, especially in regions like South Asia, are still reluctant to discuss mental health openly. Terms like “depression” or “anxiety” are often whispered in conversations or dismissed as mere mood swings, further deepening the stigmatization.
In this climate, mental health tips such as seeking professional help or engaging in self-care practices are invaluable. Yet, without addressing stigma and mental health, even the best advice may fall on deaf ears. It’s important to remember that mental health is not a luxury, but a necessity for everyone, no matter their background and gender!
Small Steps, Big Change
This World Mental Health Day 2024, take a moment to reflect on how you can make a difference. Whether it’s supporting a loved one or raising awareness on social media, each action counts. Here are some key mental health tips to get started:
- Listen without judgment: Sometimes, people just need someone who will hear them out. Listening openly can make someone feel less alone.
- Seek professional help when needed: Therapy and counselling are powerful tools that can help navigate mental health challenges. Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives. This is why therapy is important! Don’t be afraid to reach out for help or encourage others to do the same.
- Break the stigma: Speak openly about mental health. Whether it’s sharing your own experiences or spreading awareness, every conversation helps dismantle the barriers around mental health and stigmatization.
Physical Health Leading to Mental Health
Here are seven practical strategies to improve mental health, similar to how we approach physical health:
- Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. Activities like walking, yoga, can boost mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall well-being.
- Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. These can help you manage stress and promote a sense of calm.
- Spend time with family and friends or join community groups. Social support is crucial for emotional well-being and can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a calming bedtime routine and limit screen time before bed to improve sleep quality.
- Eat a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Proper nutrition supports brain health and can enhance mood and energy levels.
- Set boundaries to prevent overcommitment and learn time management skills to break tasks into manageable steps. This helps reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
- Don’t hesitate to talk to a mental health professional if you’re struggling. Therapy and counseling can provide valuable support and coping strategies.
These strategies can help promote mental well-being and resilience in everyday life.
Sensitivity Matters – it’s okay not to be okay!
Being sensitive to those in need is crucial in creating an environment where individuals feel safe and supported. Often, a simple act of kindness—a smile, a genuine question about someone’s day, or a moment of patience—can make a world of difference. Let us be mindful of our words and actions, remembering that our response can either uplift someone or deepen their struggles. May we never be the reason someone gives up on themselves. Instead, let’s strive to be a source of encouragement and hope, reinforcing the message that it’s okay to ask for help and that they are never alone in their journey.
Moving Forward Together
At its core, World Mental Health Day is about community. It’s about standing with those who are struggling, challenging the mental health stigma, and working together for a world where mental health is respected and valued just as much as physical health. Events like Mental Health Day give us the chance to reflect on what’s still needed to make mental health care accessible and effective for everyone, everywhere.
As we move forward, let’s remember that mental well-being is not just a personal journey but a shared one. World Health Mental Day may be just one day, but the commitment to mental health needs to last a lifetime. Together, we can create a future where mental health is understood, accepted, and supported—without fear, shame, or stigmatization.
This World Mental Health Day 2024 let’s take that step together!
