World Mental Health Day
- mariahorchid
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Every year on October 10, communities across the globe come together to recognize World Mental Health Day. It’s a time to shine a light on the importance of mental well-being, reduce stigma, and remind one another that no one must face challenges alone.
The World Federation for Mental Health has set its 2025 World Mental Health Day theme to Access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies. The idea is to highlight how, especially during disasters or emergencies (natural disasters, conflict zones, pandemics etc.), people need to have mental health services that are accessible.
Disasters can vary greatly. In 2020, approximately one hundred million people worldwide were affected by disaster events. In the case of disasters, vulnerable groups can be under great stress, can face major challenges, and may develop mental disorders. Nearly one-third of disaster-affected people may experience burdensome mental health consequences. Most people affected by emergencies experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, hopelessness, sleep issues, fatigue, irritability, anger, or aches. This psychological distress usually improves over time, but some people go on to develop mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.
Why Mental Health Matters Globally:
1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14
The Picture Here in Massachusetts
Even in states with strong health systems, gaps remain:
In 2023, 9.9% of Massachusetts residents said they had forgone behavioral health care in the past year for any reason; 5.1% cited cost as the barrier
26% of adults in MA reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in 2023—more than double the pre-pandemic rate of 11%
Youth mental health is a growing concern: nearly 59,000 adolescents in Massachusetts experience serious thoughts of suicide each year
How We Can Take Action Locally
World Mental Health Day isn’t just about awareness—it’s about action. Here are some ways our community can honor it:
Start the conversation: Ask a neighbor, coworker, or friend how they’re really doing.
Support local resources: Check out what’s offered by community health centers, schools, and nonprofits here on the Island.
Promote access: Share information about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which received over 68,000 calls in Massachusetts in 2023
Practice self-care: Small steps—like mindful walks, journaling, or digital detoxes—can make a significant difference.
Local Resources on the Cape & Islands
Resource | What They Do / Who they Serve | Contact |
NAMI Cape Cod & The Islands | Support, education & advocacy services for individuals & families affected by mental illness. Programs include support groups, youth initiatives, Mental Health First Aid, etc. | 508-778-4277 |
Cape Cod Healthcare — Behavioral Health | Inpatient, outpatient, emergency psychiatric services, partial hospital programs, child / adolescent services. | 800-513-4728 |
Cape Cod Pediatrics Behavioral Health | Behavioral health consultation and support for children & families: issues like anxiety, depression, loss & grief, family or transitional life changes. | 508-477-5306 |
Bay Cove Human Services | Crisis intervention, outpatient therapy, psychopharm services, care coordination, peer services. | 833-229-2683 |
⚠️ Crisis & Urgent Help Contacts
833-773-2445 / Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line — 24/7/365, for crisis / urgent mental health & substance use support; connects you to the right treatment services.
833-229-2683 / Bay Cove Mobile Crisis Team — reachable through Bay Cove Behavioral Health & Wellness Center; responds to behavioral health crises across the Cape & Islands.
988 / NAMI Helpline / National Resources — In a mental health emergency, 988 is the U.S. national number. Also, NAMI has a HelpLine, which is always useful.
On October 10, let’s stand together for mental health. By learning, listening, and acting, we can help ensure that every person—whether facing everyday stress or navigating crisis—has the support and care they deserve.
Because in the end, mental health is community health.
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