World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day, was observed on the 10th of October, and serves as a global platform for discussing the importance of mental health and reaffirming its significance in our lives. It is a day that encourages people to embrace the idea that seeking assistance for their mental well-being is not only acceptable but also commendable, regardless of the challenges they may be facing.
In 2023, World Mental Health Day provides an invaluable opportunity for individuals and communities to rally around the central theme, "Mental health is a universal human right." This overarching theme aims to enhance understanding, heighten awareness, and propel concrete actions that advocate for and safeguard the mental health of every individual as an inherent human entitlement.
The chosen theme underscores a fundamental truth: mental health is a universal human right. Thus, the Mental Health Foundation remains steadfastly committed to rectifying disparities in mental health and pursuing the goal of ensuring robust mental health for all, without exception.
Maintaining good mental health is a critical aspect of our overall well-being. Remarkably, one in eight people worldwide grapples with mental health conditions, which can have a profound impact on their physical health, quality of life, interpersonal relationships, and economic livelihoods. It is noteworthy that mental health issues are increasingly affecting adolescents and young people. We as Staff Council and University of Iowa staff have an obligation to support those that seek help and find available resources within our systems.
World Mental Health Day receives vital support from the World Health Organization (WHO), which leverages its extensive relationships with health ministries and civil society organizations to raise awareness about mental health issues. Together, we collectively work towards creating a world where mental health is universally acknowledged and upheld as an essential human right.
For more information, please visit Mental Health at Iowa | The University of Iowa (uiowa.edu)