World Mental Health Day happens annually on October 10th. The mission of this day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world. Additionally, this day focuses on mobilizing efforts that support mental health causes. According to the World Health Organization, World Mental Health 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.” Ideally, observation of this holiday could also take the stigma away from those seeking depression treatment.
At Venture Academy, our team believes in raising awareness of mental health and depression treatment, so we celebrate World Mental Health Day every year. Learn more about our programs by calling 866.762.2211 or completing our online form.
How to Observe World Mental Health Day
The World Federation for Mental Health announces that the theme for World Mental Health Day 2021 is “Mental Health in an Unequal World.” This theme was selected because of inequalities due to race and ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity, and the lack of respect for human rights in many countries. Consequently, these inequalities have an impact on mental health.
In addition to the theme of 2021, World Mental Health Day brings awareness to mental health conditions such as:
- Bipolar disorder
- Eating disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Social anxiety disorder
While these mental health conditions are common, they are still stigmatized for some people. Unfortunately, this unnecessary stigma may prevent people from seeking out professional mental health treatment.
If you and your teen would like to observe World Mental Health Day, there are several ways you can do so, including:
- Have open communication with your teen about the importance of mental health.
- Make mental health a daily priority. You can accomplish this by performing one act of self-care.
- Spread awareness. Specifically, spread awareness about the importance of stopping the stigma surrounding mental health. Let your teen know that it is okay not to be okay.
- Show your teen how you can offer support to those suffering in your community.
- Participate in local initiatives that help bring awareness and combat mental health disorders.
World Mental Health Day and Teen Mental Health
Some studies indicate that half of the lifetime cases of mental illness begin by age 14. Unfortunately, other studies show that teen mental health is gradually getting worse with time. An alarming statistic about teen mental health is that it is predicted that 30% of all girls and 20% of all boys will deal with an anxiety disorder at some point in their life. What’s even more concerning is that it is recognized that these numbers probably aren’t accurate because of the significant amount of teen mental illness that goes undiagnosed and untreated.
If you want to help your teen and foster a healthy environment for their health, there are a few things you can do. Studies show that modeling healthy habits is a great way to support your teen. Some of these healthy habits you can model to your teen include:
- Practice healthy substance-use habits. Remember, your teen learns coping skills from you.
- Limit screen time.
- Seek professional help for yourself, if necessary.
Signs of Mental Health Issues in Teens
As a parent, you’re likely always watching your child. Keep a lookout for signs of mental health issues in teens, such as:
- Persistent feelings of anxiety/worry
- Sadness/withdrawal that lasts longer than two weeks
- Disobedience or aggression
- Frequent stomach aches or headaches
- Insomnia or nightmares
- A significant, persistent decline in academic performance
- Dramatic changes in behaviour or personality
- Extreme difficulty concentrating
- Noticeable weight loss or weight gain
- Signs of self-harm (cuts, burns, or bruises)
- Substance use (including, but not limited to alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana)
Teens can learn to manage and even overcome some of the symptoms of mental health issues with the right therapy and support.
Celebrate World Mental Health Day at Venture Academy
The purpose of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health disorders and mental health treatment. If you notice any of signs of mental health disorders in your teen, our Venture Academy team is ready to help. To find out how a mental health treatment program can help your teenager, contact us at 866.762.2211 or complete our online form. One of our staff members will be happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.
