Every year the World Health Organization recognizes World Mental Health Day on October 10 to raise awareness of mental health issues worldwide, challenge stigma, and mobilize support for people who need care.In Idaho, nearly one in four live with a mental illness, impacting not only their lives, but their families, workplaces and communities. Recovery is possible, but stigma often keeps people from getting the help they need.
Some consider mental illness stigma to be on the decline. But mental health conditions are rarely treated on par with other medical issues. When did you last hear about someone in your workplace or club experiencing a medical condition, like cancer or a heart condition, and felt mobilized to support them? With so many impacted by mental illness, shouldn’t we hear about similar opportunities there? Unfortunately, people living with mental illness are discouraged from seeking treatment or help. When they do, they often feel judged or get bad advice. The resulting isolation and loneliness compound the problem.
Rotary District 5400 has formed a new Rotary District 5400 Chapter – Mental Health Initiatives Rotary Action Group whose goal it is to raise awareness about mental illness and reduce stigma. We seek to provide resources for club training, develop opportunities for clubs to learn, and promote the well-being of their members and communities.
Rotary can lead the way in debunking stigma. How can your club acknowledge and promote mental health in celebration of World Mental Health Day and raise awareness throughout the year?
- Schedule a speaker from a subject matter expert or a member of your Rotary Action Group (ask us for support!),
- Promote an activity that strengthens the mental health of your members, such as a social hour, an outdoor, physical, social, or creative activity that strengthens emotional health and resilience,
- Publicly acknowledge World Mental Health Day in your club newsletter and socials.
- Promote an activity that strengthens the mental health of your members, such as a social hour, an outdoor, physical, social, or creative activity that strengthens emotional health and resilience,
- Publicly acknowledge World Mental Health Day in your club newsletter and socials.
Join our efforts! Our Rotary Action Group meets monthly via zoom, and we’d love for you to join us!
Email Beth at beth@markley.com for more information.