World Mental Health Day, October 10, is a day designed to bring awareness towards mental health issues. This has been brought to our attention recently with the rise in issues brought about from the worldwide pandemic and World Mental Health Day is an excellent to become knowledgeable about the topic.

The largest group that suffers from mental health issues like depression is from ages 12-25, from middle school to post-college. Around 40 million people above 18, close to 18% of the population, deal with anxiety (Time Magazine). With so many people going through these two basic issues, it is obvious why we need to provide support and understanding. Something as simple as letting the victims of mental health know that they have friends can help prevent them from making decisions that might hurt them or their loved ones, but it is important to know that that support is not always enough.

On this day, and every day, people should be aware of the emotions and behaviors of those around them. Asking others how they are doing, starting a real conversation, identifying signs of crisis, and employing empathy are all helpful steps. It’s also important to remove the stigma around mental illness by sharing awareness with those who are ignorant to the signs and the struggles.

For those who feel that they are going through some unusual challenges, there is hope and help. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a number for a hotline where help is available: 1-800-662-HELP (4357). More information is available at their website, too: https://www.samhsa.gov/.