World Mental Health Day Recap:
This year’s World Mental Health Day carried a powerful message: “Mental health is a universal human right.” Just as we breathe the air, mental health is our birthright, and it’s high time we recognize and celebrate it. Each day, we strive to raise awareness and dispel myths surrounding mental health because we believe in the importance of seeking help, accessing support, and prioritizing mental well-being without shame or stigma.
As Growth Catalysts, our mission revolves around empowering youth to build networks of supportive systems and community care. We aim to create safe spaces for those who have experienced trauma or are recovering from mental health challenges, where they can find solace and healing.
Our Message of support and remembrance:
Today, we stand in unity with those who have been failed by a broken system, those who faced cruelty when they most needed safe spaces for recovery. We hope that they will discover a genuine sense of community and warmth as they navigate their healing journeys and that they’ll find safety and access to resources that will aid in repairing and enhancing their well-being.
Major Update from World Health Organization (W.H.O):
In exciting news this year, on October 9th, the World Health Organization and the United Nations jointly released new guidelines, marking a significant shift in focus from the traditional biomedical model to social determinants. A standout point in these guidelines was the acknowledgment that pathologizing individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, poverty, or oppression infringes upon their human rights. It was a breath of fresh air to see WHO recommending a shift in the framework from biomedical to social determinants.
Moreover, their recognition of trauma, poverty, and abuse highlights a more holistic understanding of the human experience. It’s a significant step forward in aligning mental health policies with the reality of people’s lives, emphasizing that the circumstances we face profoundly impact our mental well-being. This shift in perspective offers hope for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to mental health on a global scale.
The release of this report brings us a renewed sense of hope, as it signals a positive shift in mental health perspectives. We eagerly anticipate the policies that will be established in response to this transformative document. Wishing you a happy and healthy weekend ahead!
If you’re interested in delving into the World Health Organization’s report in more detail, you can download it [here].
Growth Catalysts 