World Mental Health Day – October 10th

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This day was first started in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health to raise awareness of mental illness across the globe. The theme this year is “Mental Health and Older Adults”.

In the United States, this is actually Mental Illness Awareness Week and October 10th is specifically National Depression Screening Day.

What Can One Person Do?
• Learn the symptoms of at least three mental illnesses.
• Read a book

o The Center Cannot Hold by Elyn Saks
o Crazy by Pete Earley
o Divided Minds by Pamela Spiro Wagner and Carolyn S. Spiro, M.D.
o The Soloist by Steve Lopez

• Watch a movie (and read a fact sheet about the mental illness that’s part of the plot):

o A Beautiful Mind
o Canvas
o Silver Linings Playbook
o The Soloist

• Have a conversation:

o Ask a family member or friend if they know anyone close to them who has experienced a mental illness.
o Where does a person go to begin if they need help?
o What works or doesn’t work in supporting treatment and recovery?

Become aware of the problems mental illness can cause. Educate yourself. Help others in any way that you can.

Please leave comments below. Thank you!

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