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October 10th is World Mental Health Day

October 10th is World Mental Health Day

October 8, 2020

Mental Health Facts

Fact -1 in 5 of the world’s children and adolescents have mental health disorders.

Approximately half of mental health disorders begin before the age of 14.

Fact -Mental health and substance use disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide.

About 23% of lost time because of disability is caused by mental and substance use disorders. Depression is a leading cause of disability affecting 264 million people worldwide.

Fact -Close to 800,000 people die due to suicide every year worldwide.

There are indications that for each adult who died by suicide, there may be 20 others attempting suicide. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in people aged 15-29 years old.

Fact -Disasters and emergencies have a large impact on mental health and psychosocial wellbeing.

Rates of mental disorders tend to double after emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fact -Mental health disorders are risk factors for developing other diseases.

Mental health disorders increase the risk of getting ill from diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and visa-versa. People with severe mental disorders die 10-20 years earlier than the general population.

Fact -Stigma and discrimination prevent people from seeking mental health services.

Stigma and discrimination can lead to abuse, rejection and isolation and exclude people from seeking treatment and support.

If you are struggling to manage your emotional health, reach out for support. You are not alone!

For assistance with referrals and resources contact MEND 212-366-7590 or MEND@NYCCBF.org. If you are thinking of hurting yourself, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-8255.

“This translation was not created by the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO is not responsible for the content or accuracy of this translation. The original English edition [10 Facts on Mental Health]. Geneva: World Health Organization; [2019]. License: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGOshall be the binding and authentic edition”.