“Mental health care for all: Let’s make it a reality” is this year’s theme for World Mental Health Day. World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10th every year, with the overall objective being to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilize efforts in support of mental health.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted people’s mental health of all ages and in various communities across the globe. In this public emergency, adolescents and adults have suffered uncertain prognoses, financial loss and isolation due to school closures and inadequate medical resources. While there was a quick shift for telehealth and online mental health treatment, social distancing and lockdowns paused or interrupted many mental health services for anxiety, depression and other mental health disorders. Healthcare and frontline workers, students, people living alone and those with pre-existing mental health conditions are among those particularly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. While often after disasters many people are resilient, post-traumatic stress disorder is a concern due to this collective trauma.

Taking a look at mental health statistics

  • 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness
  • 17% of youth ages 6-17 experience a mental health disorder
  • The average delay between symptom onset and treatment is 11 years
  • 43% of adults with mental illness receive treatment
  • 64% of adults with serious mental illness receive treatment
  • 51% of youth (6-17) with a mental health condition receive treatment
  • Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide
  • 19% of U.S. adults with mental illness also have a substance use disorder
  • Rates of cardiometabolic disease are twice as high in adults with serious mental illness

Common warning signs of mental illness include:

  • Feeling sad or withdrawn for more than two weeks
  • Drastic changes in mood, behavior, personality or sleeping habits
  • Trying to harm or end one’s life or making plans to do so
  • Significant weight loss or gain
  • Sudden overwhelming fear for no reason

There is hope

Government leaders, civil society organizations and others are recognizing the need for mental health services in our communities. During the World Health Assembly in May of 2021, governments from around the world recognized the need for mental health services at all levels, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They endorsed the World Health Organization’s Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2030.

How you can help

Despite the data and information we know about the status of both adult and adolescent mental health today, there is still a gap between those who need mental health services and those who receive them. Knowing that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on mental health may leave you wondering how you can help to make change and improve the lives of those in your community. You can make an impact in your community today by:

    • Volunteering at local community events
    • Advocating for and fostering youth who have been diagnosed with mental health disorders
    • Teaching your child the importance of self-care
    • Teaching your child the signs and symptoms associated with mental health disorders
    • Teaching your child the importance of standing up against the stigma associated with mental health disorders
    • Getting involved with online mental health communities and with local mental health organizations
    • Participating in awareness events
    • Standing up against bullying and being actively involved in your child’s academic and social life
    • Volunteering at a local shelter or an organization that supports troubled youth
    • Donating money to mental health awareness campaigns
    • Educating yourself on mental health disorders
    • Speaking up if you see someone who is struggling mentally or emotionally

Resources and leading mental health organizations

    • National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI)
    • Mental Health America
    • The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
    • National Institute of Mental Health
    • Child Mind Institute
    • The Trevor Project
    • Anxiety and Depression Association of America
    • Active Minds
    • Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance

At Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program,  we have mental health resources and treatment plans for both adolescents and adults. If you or someone you love needs mental health support during the COVID-19 pandemic, contact our specialists today.

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