WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY
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In News
- World Mental Health Day is observed on 10th October with the Theme “Make Mental Health & Well-Being for All a Global Priority”
- The objective is to promote global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma.
- It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries.
Mental health
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and can make a contribution to his or her community.’
- According to India’s latest National Mental Health Survey, 2015-16 nearly 150 million people in India need a mental healthcare support system.
- An adequate number of the mental health workforce in India.
- Poor awareness about the symptoms of mental illness and social stigma leads to depression and social isolation.
Steps Taken by the Government
- Mental healthcare is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
- The government is implementing the National Mental Health Program (NMHP) to address mental disorders and the shortage of qualified professionals.
- Mental HealthCare Act 2017 guarantees every affected person access to mental healthcare to protect, promote and fulfill the rights of such persons during the delivery of mental healthcare.
- The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched a 24/7 toll-free helpline ‘Kiran’ to provide support to people facing anxiety, stress, depression, suicidal thoughts and other mental health concerns.
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