Mental health has become a more prevalent concern in classrooms, the news, and businesses– turning into the main study of certain people’s jobs. The mental health of a person is very important and should be treated with care. Consequently, on October 10, 1992, World Mental Health Day was first celebrated at the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization. This has now become a global holiday that reflects on and raises awareness for mental health issues, all the while supporting others in their journeys to finding a good mindset.
Schools have started to emphasize students’ mental health. They have incorporated programs that focus on helping students express their feelings, ideas, or any sort of stress they may be experiencing. For many young individuals, it can be difficult to admit when they are struggling, either in their academic or personal lives. Introducing an outlet is a great way for students to regulate their mental health. Additionally, schools have implemented guidance counselors. Yes, there have been school counselors for many years; guidance counselors, on the other hand, help support students with their struggles– academic or personal. Even in AOSE, we have guidance counselors for all students to ask for help or advice. Not only is this another way to express one’s self, but it also sparks a relationship with the counselor.
Aside from academic environments, mental health has been a recently relevant topic for people in the workforce as well. Many companies have begun to conduct seminars about mental health and how to maintain it by balancing one’s work and personal life. These seminars and workshops have made a difference for people. Many people have changed their thinking about vacations, their workload, and the amount of stress they should and should not put on their work.
The mental health of both adolescents and adults are very important. The creation of Global Mental Health Day, to me, is a great thing that can benefit people around the world. It is the perfect opportunity to have an outlet while also creating safe spaces. Participation in this international holiday could consist of performing puppy yoga all the way to creating simple art. And this could even go beyond just one day. Mental health is such a relevant and important topic that should not be confined to one day, but rather a part of everyday life. This can be done by ensuring that you are making smart, healthy choices for your body– and mind each day!
