World Mental Health day observed with TikTok competitions

This year, the observance is being held under the theme, “Mental Health for All – Greater Investment – Greater Access.”

The Ministry of Health notes that around the globe, almost 1 billion people are living with a mental disorder.

In addition, three million people die every year from the harmful use of alcohol, and one person dies every 40 seconds by suicide.

Currently, billions of people around the world have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which is having a further negative impact on their mental health.

 “Mental Health Day serves as an opportunity to keep the discussions around all mental health issues, particularly in COVID-19 times when these are at the forefront and can overwhelm health systems even more. Mental health is indeed for all and it does require greater investment from all as it is only through a collective approach that we will be able to keep ahead of the growing mental health issues that we have,” Director of Health Services, Marvin Manzanero said.

The public is encouraged to take actions in support of their own mental health and to support friends and family who are struggling.

The plans for this year include online activities including  TikTok, poster and jingle competitions all designed to encourage the population to focus on their mental health during this time.

The Mental Health Association has planned various activities to mark World Mental Health Day 2020 including a telethon on October 10, 2020 to raise funds to support the homeless.