World Mental Health Day is observed on 10 October every year, with the overall objective of raising awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health.
The theme for World Mental Health Day 2019: FOCUS ON SUICIDE PREVENTION
WHO is encouraging all to prepare to take “40 seconds of action” on 10 October to help:
– Improve awareness of the significance of suicide as a global public health problem;
– Improve knowledge of what can be done to prevent suicide;
– Reduce the stigma associated with suicide;
– And let people who are struggling know that they are not alone.
This is an opportunity to show you care.
Here are some more ideas:
-If you are struggling, take 40 seconds to kick-start a conversation with someone you trust about how you are feeling.
-If you know someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, take 40 seconds to start a conversation and ask them how they are doing.
-If you work in media, highlight the 40-second statistic in interviews, articles and blog posts.
-If you work in the arts or on digital platforms, interrupt your production or broadcast to transmit a 40-second message about mental health or preventing suicide.
-If you are an employer or manager, take 40 seconds to formulate a positive message of support to your employees about resources available to them in the workplace or local community in times of mental distress.
-If you want your leaders to hear your request for action, record a 40-second audio clip or video telling them the action you want them to take on suicide prevention and mental health.
-If you have a platform for communicating with a large audience (social media, television, radio), provide 40-second slots for sharing mental health stories and messages.
-If you hold political office, communicate publicly about action you are taking to promote mental health and prevent suicide, highlighting the 40-second statistic.
