The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide. As mental health has become a critical issue with recent events, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become even more important to acknowledge and tackle structural barriers, reduce discrimination and stigmatisation, and work towards joint global human rights-based solutions. As part of our work on inclusion and diversity, CHARM-EU joins to raise awareness of this International Day, reiterating our commitment to providing welcoming, inclusive spaces and appropriate support for our students and community.

A long-standing issue

According to United Nations, more than 1 in 10 people live with mental health conditions. (UN OHCHR, n.a.) The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that growing social and economic inequalities, conflicts, violence, and more impacted people’s well-being and mental health even before the pandemic. WHO has been sounding the alarm that services, skills, and funding currently available for mental health are falling way short of what is needed globally and in low- and middle-income countries.

Dramatically increased by the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the urgent need for countries to appropriately address mental health based on human rights in responding to and recovering from the pandemic. Various population groups, disproportionately persons with mental health conditions or psychosocial disabilities, as well as older persons, and persons belonging to groups at risk of exclusion, have been exposed to the impact of COVID-19. (UN OHCHR, n.a.)

CHARM-EU’s commitment to mental health and well-being

In CHARM-EU, we recognise that all stakeholders must engage and invest in supporting their communities’ mental health. We acknowledge that various structural barriers, including stigma and discrimination, remain a huge obstacle to social inclusion and well-being. Throughout the work of the CHARM-EU Inclusiveness Team, alongside relevant units within the CHARM-EU universities, we are committed to providing the appropriate mental health support for our students and staff.

Joins us to raise awareness by using the hashtag #WorldMentalHealthDay on social media and contribute to Making Mental Health & Well-Being for All a Global Priority!

Find more information on World Mental Health Day by visiting the following links: World Mental Health Day 2022 (who.int) and World Mental Health Day – October 10th (wmhdofficial.com)

References:

United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner (n.a). Mental health and human rights OHCHR and the right to health. Retrieved from: OHCHR | Mental health and human rights

Official Websites: World Mental Health Day 2022 (who.int) and World Mental Health Day – October 10th (wmhdofficial.com)