October 10th is World Mental Health Day, a day created by the World Health Organization to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. The day is meant to provide an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.
The pandemic has, and continues to, take its toll on our mental health. We all know that many aspects of the mental health field were in crisis, or bordering on a crisis, in pre-pandemic times but the events of the last 2-3 years have pushed the globe into a widespread mental health crisis. Growing social and economic inequalities, political and military conflict, violence and public health emergencies have impacted whole populations and directly threaten our mental well-being.
The theme for this year’s campaign is “Making Mental Health & Well-Being for All a Global Priority”. While we may not have a global stage here at Resolve, we certainly have the ability to advocate for change and awareness within our community.
World Mental Health Day happens to fall on Thanksgiving Day for us this year. While we will be closed, this may be a great weekend to check in with family and friends to see how they’re doing, or strike up conversations with those in your life about the state of mental health supports in both our province and country. Sometimes the smallest spark of change can start with a single conversation.
In addition, the EDII Committee would like to wish a Happy Thanksgiving to those who celebrate the holiday, a Happy 2nd weekend in October to those who do not, and a virtual show of support to those who may find holidays difficult.
