Bangladesh to observe World Mental Health Day on Saturday

The World Mental Health Day will be celebrated on Saturday this year drawing attention to the fact that people with mental health conditions face stigma, isolation and many more that make them feel bad about themselves.

“Dignity in mental health” is the theme of this year’s celebration as World Health Organisation finds it as “one of the most daunting challenges in mental health”.

By dignity, WHO means, steps are taken to safeguard the well-being of people with mental health conditions, thus liberating them from the shackles of self-stigma, low confidence, low self-esteem, withdrawal and social isolation.

“We will achieve dignity for mental health when communities, families and individuals have the confidence to seek help for mental health without fear and inhibition,” said WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh before the observance.

Mental, neurological and substance use disorders are common all over the world, affecting every community and age group across all income countries.

WHO says at least 14 percent of the global burden of disease is attributed to these disorders, but almost 75 percent in many low-income countries do not have access to the treatment.

This day is observed to reflect on where a country stands and what is needed to make mental health care a reality for people around the world.

Prof Shaheen Islam, Chairman of Dhaka University’s Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, toldbdnews24.com “myths and misconceptions” on mental health still prevail in Bangladesh.

“Awareness has to be raised. People remained ignorant about mental health,” she said.

“At the same time, proper services have to be ensured at all levels and then we can expect a big change in the society”.

WHO promotes a shift from prolonged stay in mental hospitals, which is in itself “stigmatising”, to care in community-based settings, which are “more acceptable and dignified.”