The World Health Organisation recognises World Mental Health Day on 10th October every year. This year’s theme, set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is ‘Mental Health in an Unequal World’.
Over the last year many people have struggled with their mental health at a time where services for mental health have been cut, or access to these services have been severely disrupted due to the pandemic. Research evidence shows that there is a deficiency in the quality of care provided to people with a mental health problem.
Also the stigma and discrimination experienced by people who experience mental ill health not only affect a person’s physical and mental health, but stigma also affects their educational opportunities, current and future earning and job prospects, and also affects their families and loved ones. This inequality needs to be looked at and addressed, which is what this year’s theme is about.
Now that we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, I think it’s a good time to reflect on how these issues have affected us all, and it’s important for us all to ask ourselves “What we can do to address these inequalities?”
On 10th October the Mental Health UK are teaming up with ITN to create a programme called ‘Moving forward’. If you want to see a trailer you can click here.
The things I do to try and raise awareness is of course writing this monthly blog, but also during my training sessions talking about stigma and discrimination, and the impact it has on people that are struggling with mental health issues. I challenge any misconceptions that people may have and I promote self-care practices. I know personally how myself and others can quickly deteriorate if we don’t look after our mental health. In my team I regularly bring up the subject of metal health so it is not taboo, and so that everyone gets used to talking about the subject.
If you want to share your stories about your own particular experience of mental health, and what has helped you, it would be great to hear from you. Or if you would like to contribute to the blog you can reply directly or e-mail me on shirley.allmark@achievetogether.co.uk
It would be great to hear from you.
In the meantime enjoy the outdoors and stay safe.
Shirl
About me:
I have been a mental health nurse for 28 years. I work in the Health and Wellbeing Team, and my main role is to facilitate mental health and related subjects. I also facilitate epilepsy and emergency rescue medication training. I provide support and consultations to managers and teams supporting individuals with complex needs and mental health difficulties. This blog is written to encourage people to start talking about mental health, in order to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
