It’s World Mental Health Day this week - here’s what the theme is and how to take part

This weekend (10 October) marks World Mental Health Day, a day designed to encourage authorities to take action and create lasting change within mental health care.

Here is everything you need to know.

What is World Mental Health Day?

World Mental Health Day aims to raise awareness in the global community around mental health "with a unifying voice through collaboration with various partners".

That’s according to the World Federation for Mental Health, the organisation behind the day, which was celebrated for the first time in 1992.

This year it takes place on Saturday 10 October.

What is this year's theme?

The theme this year is 'mental health for all'.

"The world is experiencing the unprecedented impact of the current global health emergency due to COVID-19 that has also impacted on the mental health of millions of people", says Dr Ingrid Daniels, president of the World Federation for Mental Health.

"We know that the levels of anxiety, fear, isolation, social distancing and restrictions, uncertainty and emotional distress experienced have become widespread as the world struggles to bring the virus under control and to find solutions.

Dr Daniels believes mental health is a human right, and that it is time for that mental health to be available for all.

"Quality, accessible primary health care is the foundation for universal health coverage and is urgently required as the world grapples with the current health emergency.

"We therefore need to make mental health a reality for all – for everyone, everywhere."

What can I do to take part?

(Photo: Shutterstock)

There are a number of things you can do to take part if you want to share your support of World Mental Health Day.