World Mental Health Day 2018

10^th October 2018 is World Mental Health Day, and UK media and MPs have responded with a high degree of attention. 

A ‘worldwide’ problem

The Guardian marks the day with an article which states there is a ‘worldwide’ problem of ‘monumental suffering’ and many spokespeople say the focus must be on young people.

One school girl interviewed on the BBC today explained that ‘doors had closed’ to her future because her anxiety had not been addressed at school in time for her to reach her potential in GCSE studies.

A Lancet report quoted in The Guardian says 13.5 million lives could be saved every year if mental illness was addressed, and PM Theresa May announced today the appointment of a Government post for suicide prevention.

Ellern Mede and Ellern Mede School welcomes the increasing publicity being given to the issues of young people with mental health conditions. It is frequently the case that the conditions we specialise in – eating disorders – coincide with other mental health conditions. Together, all of these conditions form significant barriers to learning. Ellern Mede hospital and Ellern Mede School work together with local authorities and community support teams to give post treatment support for both health and education.

World Mental Health Day is promoted worldwide by the World Health Organisation (WHO) which has an Action Plan 2013 – 2020. It’s four main objectives are:

• strengthen effective leadership and governance for mental health.
• provide comprehensive, integrated and responsive mental health and social care services in community-based settings.
• implement strategies for promotion and prevention in mental health.
• strengthen information systems, evidence and research for mental health.