World Mental Health Day 2023: 'Mental health is a universal human right'
World Mental Health Day is celebrated annually on October 10th with the aim of raising public awareness of mental health issues globally, and to remind of the importance of its preservation and strengthening.
On this day, people from all over the world come together to discuss the importance of mental health care and support for those facing mental health challenges.
This year, the campaign calls for a global dialogue on the significance of mental health, as statistics show that one in four people will experience mental health problems at some point in their lives. Concurrently, problems related to mental health directly affect about 12% of the world's population. This includes not only those who are ill but also their relatives and those around them who suffer from the consequences of these pathologies. These facts highlight the importance of support and awareness in this area.
In the Republic of Belarus, over 450,000 residents are under observation in psychiatric and narcological institutions, which is more than 4.5% of the population.
For the current period of 2023, the incidence of mental disorders in the Vitebsk region was 379.8 cases per 100,000 population, a decrease of 3% compared to the 2022 level. More than 40,000 people seek psychiatric care in the region annually (including anonymously), with the largest number seeking help for organic brain diseases, including dementia in old age. This is followed by people suffering from schizophrenia and related disorders. In third place by prevalence of seeking help are patients with neurotic and stress-related disorders. And in fourth place are children and adolescents suffering from mental and behavioral disorders.
For 9 months of 2023, the incidence of narcological disorders was 103.5 cases per 100,000 population, an increase of 14.5% compared to the 2022 level. The incidence of addiction among the female population was 53.6 cases per 100,000 female population, an increase of 6.1% compared to the 2022 level. During the 9 months of 2023, 81 children were identified as using alcohol and other psychoactive substances, which is 6% higher than the 2022 level.
In 2023, the Vitebsk region achieved a significant reduction in the suicide rate. For the current period of 2023, the suicide rate in the Vitebsk region was 12.36 cases per 100,000 population, which is 27.5% lower than in the same period of 2022.
Why is mental health so important?
Impact on overall health. Mental and physical health are closely linked. Chronic stress, depression, and anxiety disorders can cause or exacerbate many chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, etc.
Impact on quality of life. People suffering from mental health problems may experience difficulties in communication, work, and study. This can limit their opportunities and hinder a fulfilling life.
Social and economic consequences. Mental illnesses can lead to job loss, relationship breakdowns, and even homelessness. They threaten the economic development of countries and the well-being of societies.
How can we support mental health?
Awareness and education. Understanding what mental health is helps people identify signs of problems and seek support.
Access to healthcare. Everyone needs access to quality healthcare for timely diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses.
Combating discrimination. Many people are reluctant to talk about their mental health problems due to the stigma associated with mental illnesses. We need to change this culture and create a society where everyone can openly discuss their mental state without fear of being misunderstood or judged.
How to maintain mental health?
In order not to face mental illnesses, it is important not to treat the consequences, but to prevent the possible onset of the disease.
A person's physical and mental condition are closely interconnected. There are several rules for maintaining a healthy body and mind:
Exercise and proper nutrition. A balanced diet and moderate physical activity are key to strong blood vessels, a healthy nervous system, and a robust immune system.
Deep sleep for at least 7-8 hours. Sleep promotes rapid recovery of the body, and consequently, greater resilience to stressful situations.
Hobbies, a pastime according to one's taste. It has been repeatedly proven that engaging in a favorite activity causes the body to release "joy hormones."
Interaction with interesting and positive people. A positively minded person energizes those around them with good, quality energy, nourishing both themselves and others.
The ability and opportunity to speak out. It is harmful to hide negative emotions and withdraw into oneself. Resentments accumulated over the years, unspoken words, misunderstandings, and stress can lead to serious mental disorders, the consequences of which will be irreversible and fatal.
Conclusion
World Mental Health Day reminds us that caring for our mental health is just as important as caring for our physical body. By supporting our mental health and helping others, we create a stronger and healthier society for everyone.
We invite everyone – from government officials to ordinary citizens – to stand together and support this important initiative. Because mental health issues are not just problems of individuals; they are issues for the entire society.
The healthcare institution "Vitebsk Regional Clinical Center for Psychiatry and Narcology" provides services:
identification and correction of addictive behaviors (comprehensive and individual approach);
narcological assistance, including anonymously;
psychiatric assistance;
psychotherapy, including anonymously;
psychoeducation;
psychological support and correction;
treatment of neurotic disorders (anxiety, depression, etc.), emotional and behavioral disorders, including anonymously;
and much more for maintaining mental health.
Contact phone numbers:
dispensary registry: 8 (0212) 61 45 80
anonymous reception registry: 8 (0212) 61 45 76
hospital admission department: 8 (0212) 69 29 33
It is also important to remember that the emergency psychological support service "Helpline" operates in the Vitebsk region – 8 (0212) 61 60 60 (24/7). Specialists will listen to your problem and provide recommendations on how to proceed, schedule an appointment, or advise you on where to seek further help.
Republican "Children's Helpline": tel. 8 801 100 1611
Chief freelance specialist
for psychotherapy of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee Healthcare Department
Yu.N. Torchilo
Chief freelance specialist
for psychiatry of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee Healthcare Department
Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee
E.V. Martynova