World Mental Health Day 2019 – what’s the theme this year and how can I get involved?
TODAY is World Mental Health Day and there are many ways you can do your bit to raise awareness or money.
The day occurs every year on October 10 — but what's it all about, what is the 2019 theme and how can I get involved?
What is World Mental Health Day and what is the 2019 theme?
The event takes place every year on October 10 and it aims to educate and raise awareness of mental health issues.
The day was set up by the World Federation for Mental Health and it was first celebrated in 1992.
Each year the event has a different theme and this year it's psychological first aid and the support people can provide to others in distress.
Suicide prevention is the primary focus for the 2019 theme for World Mental Health Day.
- W - watch out for signs of distress and uncharacteristic behaviour
- A - ask “are you having suicidal thoughts?”
- I - it will pass – assure your loved one that, with help, their suicidal feelings will pass with time
- T - talk to others – encourage your loved one to seek help from a GP or health professional
And while suicide isn't always related to mental health problems, there are links, and currently suicide is the most common cause of death for men aged 20-49 years in England and Wales.
Having said that, you shouldn't always assume that someone suffering from mental illness is also suicidal - but it makes it clear that more needs to be done.
This can range from improvements in mental health care provision on the NHS to more open conversations about mental health.
Other mental health facts to bear in mind
1. Mixed anxiety and depression is the most common mental disorder in Britain.
2. As many as 10 per cent of people in England will experience depression in their lifetime.
3. The poorer and more disadvantaged are disproportionately affected by common mental health problems and their adverse consequences.
4. Ten per cent of mothers and six per cent of fathers in the UK have mental health problems at any given time.
5. One in five teens experience a mental health problem in any given year.
All statistics from The Mental Health Foundation.
How can you get involved?
You can get involved in a number of ways, including hosting a Tea&Talk fundraising event for friends and family.
If you want to hold one, simple gather up some people and talk about mental health issues over a tea and possibly biscuits.
The Mental Health Foundation's 10 tips on how to look after your mental health
1. Talk about your feelings
2. Exercise
3. Eat well
4. Drink sensibly
5. Keep in touch with loved ones
6. Ask for help
7. Take a break
8. Do something you’re good at
9. Accept who you are
10. Care for others
For more advice, .
For more information on mental illness visit , , and .
To talk to call 116 123.