World Mental Health Day

In an effort to raise awareness about mental illness, Oct. 10 is World Mental Health Day. First observed in 1992, the annual “holiday” also brings attention to the lack of resources devoted to mental health services. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), budgets devoted to mental health is considered “inadequate.”

Over 450 million people around the world suffer from mental disorders. One in four people will require some sort of mental health care during their lifetime. About 120 million people suffer from depression, the leading cause of disability around the world. Each year, 1 million people die by committing suicide. While many mental illnesses can be effectively treated, many people suffering from mental health issues not only endure a negative stigma, but also endure discrimination.

Biological, environmental, social and socio-economic factors determine one’s mental health. A person’s mental health is essential to a healthy lifestyle. “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity,” according to the WHO.

October 10 is also National Cake Decorating Day and National Angel Food Cake Day.