World Mental Health Day (WMHD) is observed in October. The World Federation for Mental Health created this holiday in 1992, and annual events supporting this vital cause and mental health treatment programs continue today.
The mission of WMHD is to advocate against the social stigmas and misunderstandings attached to mental illness. It also builds awareness of the need for better mental health care resources and empowers those living in fear about someone discovering their condition. If you or someone you love needs the support of a mental health treatment program, call Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida at 866.294.5306 today.
How Are Mental Health and Addiction Connected?
Individuals struggling with mental health disorders are more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Experts have estimated that over eight million people in the United States are currently coping with both mental illness and addiction at the same time. This condition is otherwise known as dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders. People from all walks of life suffer from co-occurring disorders, which means they affect every ethnic group, socio-economic group, religion, and age group.
Dual Diagnosis
One theory that sheds light on the connection between mental health and addiction is genetic predisposition. In other words, genetic variations contribute to mental disorders, including substance use disorder which is also a mental health issue.
Another potential concern is that individuals become dependent on drugs or alcohol to cope with their undiagnosed or untreated mental illness. In this way, mental health and detox are also connected.
It is not uncommon for patients to address mental illness issues for the first time during recovery. In some cases, doctors can’t diagnose mental and physical illnesses until a person’s system is clear of drugs and alcohol. Otherwise, healthcare professionals cannot get an accurate evaluation of a patient’s condition.
In both situations, better access to mental health therapy can help patients get the help they need. Fortunately, that’s what World Mental Health Day is all about.
How Can You Observe World Mental Health Day?
Check with local mental health organizations to learn about public WMHD events in your area or surrounding regions. If you cannot find an event or prefer not to participate in a public event for whatever reason, consider the following ideas to observe the celebration on your own:
- Make a personal pledge to make your own mental health a priority every day of the year.
- If you need professional support to deal with a mental health issue but have been unsure about reaching out, call a therapist in honor of this global observance.
- Spread awareness. If you or a loved one is living with depression or other mental health issues, talk about the experience with friends, co-workers, and family members who may be unaware of the situation.
- If you’re an employer, use the occasion to discuss your company’s mental health policies. Let employees know they will find non-judgmental support in their workplace.
- Participate in local initiatives to fund mental health therapy and resources in your area.
- Offer support to someone you know struggling with mental illness, including substance use disorders.
Taking even one small action to recognize this annual observance for mental health can make a big difference. You never know what a single word of support can mean to a person who is suffering.
Seek Treatment at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida
Do you know someone who needs both mental health and detox services? Don’t wait for October. You can honor the mission of World Mental Health Day anytime by reaching out for help. Call Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida today at 866.294.5306 to learn more about dual diagnosis and how our recovery programs can help.
