October 10th is World Mental Health Day; the objective of this day is to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma, and advocate for better mental health care
The theme “Mental health is a human right” aims to drive actions promoting and protecting everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.
Every individual has the human right to the highest attainable standard of mental health. This included the right to safeguarding against mental health risks, access to readily available, easily reachable, culturally sensitive, high-quality mental health care, and personal freedom, self-sufficiency, and integration within their community.
Good mental health is crucial for our overall well-being. Unfortunately, one in eight people worldwide are dealing with mental health issues. These conditions can affect their physical health, relationships, and work. They are also becoming more common among young people.
Mental healthcare in England
The mental health charity Mind reported that 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience mental health problems yearly. 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem in England.
While the overall number of mental health issues hasn’t seen significant changes in recent years, financial matters, employment, and benefits concerns can make individuals mental health worse.
Reports from England and Wales indicate that about 1 in 8 adults dealing with a mental health issue are undergoing treatment. The most frequently mentioned form of treatment for mental health problems is medication.
Better mental health support in England
A coalition of charities, thinktanks and staff groups called on ministers to address England’s declining mental health by addressing issues such as poverty, inadequate housing, and air pollution.
Their plan for enhancing mental health also involves measures to combat racism, changes to the benefits system, and efforts to eliminate the significant disparity in life expectancy between individuals with severe psychiatric conditions and the general population. Their report draws on policy proposals by 35 key organisations, including Mind and Rethink Mental Illness.
The report cautions government ministers about the growing mental health challenges, with 8.2 million individuals dealing with anxiety or depression.
Additionally, the report outlines various measures that should be incorporated into a 10-year plan for enhancing mental health. These measures include:
- A new Child Poverty Act to banish child poverty by 2030.
- The creation of a minimum income guarantee and reforming sick pay.
- Action against junk food, smoking, alcohol and gambling.
- The end of “hostile environment” immigration policies.
