Hajja Salesjana

There are around 7.9 billion people on Earth. Of them, nearly one billion people struggle with a mental health disorder. Touching the lives of millions every single day, it’s very likely your friends, your family, your colleagues, your peers and even your local barista have been affected by the agonising cycle of mental health. Devastatingly, one in every 100 deaths is by suicide, the World Health Organization (WHO) states. Having endured the challenging times of the pandemic for almost two years, it’s more important than ever to recognise World Mental Health Day, which is held on 10 October every year. “We are in the middle of a growing mental health crisis,” António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, said at the Global Mental Health Summit. “The loss of loved ones, disruption to jobs and education, and the social isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have led to rising levels of stress and depression.” Of all conditions, depression is the leading cause worldwide suffered by about five per cent of adults. “There is no health without mental health.” – António Guterres Raising awareness towards the often invisible illness, it’s important to take time out and check in with loved ones – even those who seem to be the happiest. Despite costing the global economy US$1 trillion every year, countries only spend on average a mere two per cent of 15 ways to look after your mental health their national health budgets on mental health, the WHO claims. However, this is set to change as governments realise the importance of improving mental health services across all levels where many countries have endorsed the WHO’s Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2030. “In low- and middle-income countries, more than 75 per cent of people with mental health conditions receive no treatment whatsoever,” Guterres said. “This is a direct consequence of chronic under-investment. “There is no health without mental health.” 15 ways to nurture your mental health 1. Pick up the phone By talking through your feelings, thoughts Make a positive change to your life and those around you. By Emily Pidgeon The CEO Magazine Photo by Eric McClean on Unsplash.com Photo by Eldar Nazarov on Unsplash.com 31 Jannar - Marzu 2023 hajja