World Mental Health Day 2020 is the most important one yet.

This year has been a tough one for us all. The months of lockdown and loss have had a huge impact on our mental health and wellbeing.

World Mental Health Day raises awareness for the global community in an empathetic way, with a unifying voice, helping people feel hopeful by empowering them to take action and create lasting change.

The overall objective of world Mental Health Day is raising awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilising efforts in support of good mental health.

In 2020, the world is experiencing the unprecedented impact of the current global health emergency due to COVID-19 that has impacted the mental health of millions of people. Under this current global health emergency no-one should be denied mental health care.

We have introduced the I Am Here programme, part of our global Be GFG Safe approach to health and safety, in many countries to help colleagues access the support services available.

I Am Here gives us the courage, confidence and skills to signpost fellow Team Members to help and support when needed.

Look at what the I Am Here programme can offer you, in our global health and wellbeing section on The Hub, whether that is the skills and knowledge to offer that helping hand or whether it is awareness of where those helping hands can be found within your business.

If you are in a business that has not yet introduced I Am Here, please reach out to your HR team or health provider for support.

It is of great significance and importance that the theme for World Mental Health Day 2020 is: Mental Health for All: Greater Investment – Greater Access

Mental health is a human right – it’s time mental health is made a reality for all – for everyone, everywhere.

For more information visit the World Federation for Mental Health website here.​

For country specific information:

• Australia – LAYMHA website (“Make a Promise – look after your mental health Australia)
• UK – Mind website (“Do one thing” campaign)
• USA – Mental Health America website (Mental Illness Awareness Week)