Mental well-being is as important as physical health, but it often gets less attention. World Mental Health Day serves as a chance to give mental health issues their overdue attention. Since the World Federation for Mental Health started it in 1992, World Mental Health Day has been observed annually on October 10.
Despite progress, many issues need to be addressed to foster a destigmatized, empathetic world. A prominent concern is the lack of access to care for many people. Whether due to financial constraint or a shortage of qualified professionals, mental health services should be more widely accessible.
Workplace stress is another major issue, yet many organizations lack adequate support systems. Being in a good mental state is essential for both performance and general satisfaction.
While there is still change that needs to be made, there are things that we can do as individuals to direct us toward a healthier world:
- Create a supportive environment: You don’t need to be a professional to lend an ear to someone in need. Encourage open discussion about mental health to reduce stigmas.
- Educate yourself and colleagues: Fight stigmas through education. Understanding issues will eliminate misconceptions and encourages empathy.
- Advocate for workplace policies: Push for the organization to implement mental health policies and services (stress management resources, assistance for employees, etc.).
- Focus on work-life balance: Knowing how to separate your work and life is essential for decompressing and relaxing. Focus on finding a balance that suits your health and your work.
- Get involved with mental health organizations: Contribute through a donation or volunteer your time to dedicated organizations.
October 10 isn’t a random Thursday in autumn; it’s a call to action. By coming together to raise awareness, debunk stigma, and support the people around us, we can push for meaningful change and create a better future for mental health.
At SCG, we are addressing these mental health needs within the organization and advocating for a healthy work-life balance by offering various initiatives, like yoga sessions in the building on Wednesdays and employee led mental health workshops and fundraisers. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to building a balanced work environment that ensures employees have everything they need to be at their best, both personally and professionally.
