Global/New Delhi, October 10, 2025
As the world grapples with escalating humanitarian crises—from natural disasters to conflicts—World Mental Health Day on October 10 serves as a stark reminder that mental well-being is not a luxury but a fundamental human right. This year, under the theme "Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies," global leaders, organizations, and communities are uniting to advocate for equitable mental health support in times of turmoil. The initiative, spearheaded by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the urgent need to integrate psychosocial care into emergency responses worldwide.
The theme highlights how crises exacerbate mental health challenges, affecting millions who face trauma, displacement, and loss without adequate support. According to WHO, over 1 billion people live in conflict zones or disaster-prone areas, where mental health services are often the first to be deprioritized. "No health without mental health," the organization emphasizes, calling for governments and aid agencies to prioritize scalable interventions like community-based counseling and digital helplines during emergencies. Key messages from the campaign include breaking the stigma around seeking help, training first responders in psychological first aid, and ensuring vulnerable groups—such as children, refugees, and the elderly—have uninterrupted access to care.
Globally, observances kicked off with a wave of virtual and in-person events. In New York City, Project Healthy Minds hosted its annual World Mental Health Day Festival, featuring panels with global leaders on mind-body nourishment and resilience-building activities. The event, attended by over 1,500 participants, included mindfulness workshops and discussions on integrating mental health into disaster preparedness. Across Europe, UNICEF in Montenegro launched awareness drives focusing on child protection, promoting national helplines like the Child SOS Line (116 111) and urging communities to foster safe spaces amid violence and instability. In the UK, the Baton of Hope Tour concluded on this day, with 1,500 baton bearers across 20 locations advocating for suicide prevention in schools, raising funds and awareness through walks and talks.
In Asia, Japan marked the day with high-profile illuminations: Rilakkuma, the campaign's mascot, appeared at the Osaka Expo on October 10 and Tokyo Tower on October 11, symbolizing a "circle of support" for mental health. The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare encouraged open conversations with the slogan "#ListenToYourHeart," tying into broader efforts to expand workplace mental health programs. Meanwhile, in Zimbabwe, Arrupe Jesuit University organized seminars at its Harare campus, exploring emergency mental health strategies under the theme.
In India, where mental health resources are stretched thin amid frequent floods, earthquakes, and urban stress, the day resonated deeply with localized initiatives. All India Radio (Akashvani) broadcast a special discussion on "Depression & Aggression in Youth," streaming live to address rising concerns among adolescents. In Noida, the Manas Mental Health Consultation Center hosted a community event at Arun Vihar Community Centre, featuring talks on normalizing mental health dialogues in families—echoing expert advice from psychologists like Maitree Baral, who stressed creating "safe spaces at home" through empathetic listening. Political figures joined the chorus: BJP leader Vijay Goel urged people to "check in with yourself and someone you care about," while the Cancer Control Mission emphasized holistic well-being, linking mental health to cancer care. Social media buzzed with calls to action, including green ribbon challenges (#WearGreenForMentalHealth) from institutions like the University of Limpopo, adapting the global theme to local contexts.
Experts and advocates alike stress that action must extend beyond one day. "Mental health in emergencies isn't optional—it's essential for recovery," said Nomakhwezi Mabunda of South Africa's Sisonke Wellness Foundation during a webinar hosted by Huruma Bantfu. The event delved into barriers like stigma and resource gaps, offering practical tips for community-led support. WHO's virtual dialogue, "Strengthening Mental Health Systems Before, During, and After Disasters," further amplified this, with speakers from 50 countries pledging to embed mental health in national emergency plans.
As the sun sets on October 10, the message is clear: In an unequal world of crises, access to mental health services can bridge divides and save lives. Individuals are encouraged to start small—reach out to a friend, dial a helpline, or advocate for policy change. Resources like WHO's campaign toolkit and local lines (e.g., India's KIRAN helpline at 1800-599-0019) stand ready. After all, as one X user poignantly noted, "A small conversation can make a big difference."
For more on global events, visit wmhdofficial.com. Let's turn awareness into action—because every mind matters.
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