World Mental Health Day 2024, celebrated on 10th October, serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and advocacy on a global scale. This year’s theme “It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace” emphasises the urgent need for organisations to support the mental wellbeing of their employees.
The day encourages individuals, organisations, and communities to engage in meaningful conversations, share personal stories, and break down the stigma associated with mental health challenges. As we come together to raise awareness, we also highlight the need for accessible support services that cater to diverse populations, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to prioritise their mental wellbeing.
Mental Health by the Numbers
Understanding the prevalence of mental health issues worldwide helps highlight the importance of awareness and action. Here are some key statistics that illustrate the current state of mental health globally:
Prevalence of Mental Health Disorders
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 8 people globally live with a mental disorder. This equates to around 970 million individuals affected worldwide.
- Common mental health disorders include depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, with depression being one of the leading causes of disability globally.
Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health
- A study published in The Lancet found that the prevalence of anxiety and depression increased 25% globally in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The WHO estimates that 264 million people suffer from depression worldwide, a number that has likely increased due to the pandemic’s psychological impact.
Suicide Rates
- According to the WHO, suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15 to 29-year-olds globally. In 2019, around 703,000 people died by suicide.
- It is important to note that for each suicide, there are an estimated 20 attempts, highlighting the urgent need for prevention and intervention strategies.
Mental Health and Young People
- The Global Burden of Disease Study reported that 50% of mental health disorders begin by age 14, and 75% by the mid-20s. Early intervention is crucial in addressing these issues effectively.
- According to UNICEF, 1 in 7 adolescents aged 10-19 experience mental disorders, emphasizing the need for targeted support for younger populations.
Stigma and Help-Seeking Behaviour
- Despite the high prevalence of mental health disorders, stigma remains a significant barrier to seeking help. A global survey by the WHO indicated that 35% of people feel that mental health issues are a sign of weakness.
- Research shows that only 40% of people with mental health conditions seek help, which further underscores the importance of raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health issues.
Economic Impact of Mental Health Disorders
- The World Economic Forum estimates that mental health conditions cost the global economy approximately $1 trillion in lost productivity each year.
- Investing in mental health can lead to significant economic benefits, with every $1 spent on treatment resulting in a return of $4 in improved health and productivity.
Access to Mental Health Care
- Globally, about one in three people with mental health disorders receives no treatment at all. This lack of access to care is especially pronounced in low- and middle-income countries, where nearly 75% of people with mental disorders do not receive any form of mental health care.
- In high-income countries, the average treatment gap for mental health disorders is about 40%, meaning that many individuals still struggle to access necessary support.
How to Support a Colleague Who May Be Struggling
If you notice a colleague who seems to be struggling with their mental health, it’s important to approach the situation with care and sensitivity. Here are ways you can support a colleague in need:
Look for signs of behavioural changes:
Pay attention to sudden changes in your colleague’s behaviour, such as withdrawing from social interactions, increased absenteeism, mood swings, or a decline in their work performance. These can often be indicators of underlying mental health struggles.
Approach them with genuine concern:
Choose a private and comfortable setting to reach out. You might say something like, “I’ve noticed you haven’t been yourself lately, is everything OK?” Make sure your tone is empathetic and non-judgemental, showing that you’re there to listen and support them.
Offer a listening ear without judgement or advice:
Sometimes, simply listening to someone’s concerns can provide relief. Avoid jumping to conclusions or offering solutions unless they explicitly ask for advice. Let them express themselves freely without feeling the pressure to solve their problems.
Encourage them to seek professional help if needed:
If your colleague seems overwhelmed, suggest they speak with HR or mental health services. Offer to help them connect with resources, whether that’s finding a counsellor or contacting employee support programs. This can provide them with the guidance they need.
Respect their privacy and boundaries:
While it’s important to show support, remember to respect their boundaries. Some people may not be ready to talk about their struggles, and that’s OK. Let them know you’re available whenever they need to talk, without pressuring them into discussing their feelings.
How to Ask Someone If They Are OK
Initiating a conversation about mental health can be intimidating, but asking someone if they are OK can be the first step in providing much-needed support. Here’s how to approach the situation effectively:
Choose the right time and place
Make sure you’re in a comfortable, private setting where you can speak without interruptions. Avoid public spaces or busy times when the person might feel rushed or distracted. For example, you might say:
- “Hey, I was wondering if we could grab a coffee and have a chat. I’ve noticed some things and wanted to check in with you.”
Be direct and specific in your approach
Instead of general questions like, “How are you?”—which can often lead to a superficial answer—be more direct and specific about what you’ve noticed. This shows you’re genuinely concerned. For example:
- “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed quieter than usual lately and haven’t been yourself. Is everything OK? I’m here if you need to talk.”
Ask open-ended questions that encourage conversation
Open-ended questions give the person space to share their feelings, rather than answering with a simple “yes” or “no.” For example, you could say:
- “You haven’t seemed like yourself these past few weeks. Do you want to talk about what’s been going on?”
Or:
- “You mentioned last week that things have been a bit stressful for you. How are you feeling about it now?”
Listen without judgement or interruption
When they start talking, focus entirely on listening. Let them speak at their own pace and avoid jumping in with advice. It’s often more important to listen than to provide solutions. You could say:
- “I’m really glad you’re telling me this. I’m here to listen—take your time.”
Or, after they’ve shared:
- “Thank you for sharing that. It sounds like things have been really tough for you.”
Validate their feelings and offer reassurance
Acknowledge their emotions and show empathy. Let them know it’s OK to feel how they’re feeling. For example:
- “It’s completely understandable that you’re feeling overwhelmed. You’re not alone in this—there’s help available, and I’m here for you.”
Encourage them to seek help, but don’t force it
Gently suggest they seek professional help if needed but respect their readiness to take that step. You might say:
- “It might help to talk to someone like a counsellor or doctor. I can help you find someone, if you’d like.”
Or:
- “If you ever feel like talking to a professional would help, I’m happy to support you in setting that up.”
Check back in later
Follow up after the conversation to show you’re still there for them. A simple check-in can make a big difference. You could send a message or ask in person:
- “I’ve been thinking about you. How are you feeling today?”
Or:
- “I just wanted to check in and see how things have been since we last spoke.”
Global Mental Health Resources
Access to mental health resources is essential for individuals seeking help or information. Various global organisations and platforms offer support, education, and tools for improving mental health and wellbeing. Here are some prominent global mental health resources that can be beneficial:
The WHO is a leading global health authority that provides extensive information on mental health, including guidelines, research, and resources for countries to develop effective mental health policies. Their website offers valuable information on mental health disorders, prevention strategies, and access to care. Visit their mental health page.
This UK-based charity focuses on promoting mental health awareness and providing practical support. Their website features resources on various mental health topics, including stress, anxiety, depression, and wellbeing tips. They also run campaigns to raise awareness and advocate for better mental health support. Explore their resources.
NAMI is a US-based organisation dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by mental health conditions. They offer a wealth of resources, including educational materials, support groups, and a helpline. NAMI also provides information on navigating the mental health system and advocating for better services. Learn more at NAMI’s website.
Another leading UK charity, Mind offers information and support to anyone experiencing mental health problems. They provide guides on understanding mental health issues, advice on how to seek help, and resources for friends and family to better support those in need. Their resources are available on their website.
IASP is a global organisation that aims to prevent suicide and reduce its impact on individuals and communities. They provide resources for suicide prevention, including research, training, and support for those affected by suicide. They also offer an online directory of crisis centres worldwide. Visit IASP’s website.
Available in several countries, Crisis Text Line offers free, 24/7 support via text message. Individuals can reach out for help in moments of crisis and receive immediate support from trained crisis counsellors. It’s a discreet and accessible way to talk about mental health. Learn more about this service.
BetterHelp is an online platform that connects individuals with licensed therapists for virtual counselling sessions. It provides flexible and affordable mental health support, allowing users to access therapy from the comfort of their homes. This resource is especially valuable for those who may have difficulty accessing traditional in-person therapy. Explore their services.
Wellity Training Support
We are dedicated to enhancing mental health awareness and support through our comprehensive global training programs. By providing tailored mental health training and resources, we empower organisations and individuals worldwide to recognise mental health challenges, foster a supportive environment, and implement effective strategies for wellbeing.
- The Mentally F.I.T. Series
- Creating a Mentally Health Working Culture
- Addressing the Anxious Mind
- All Minds Matter: The Mental Health Toolkit
- Conversations that Count
For any information on our sessions, contact our team today!