How Might We Observe World Mental Health Day?

Friday, October 10th was World Mental Health Day—a time to focus globally on emotional well-being. Established in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) and recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), this annual event reminds us that mental health deserves attention all year long.

While many hoped that the end of the COVID-19 pandemic would bring a collective lift in mental health, it’s clear that many people continue to struggle emotionally. I was honored to speak with Marisa at Good Day DC on World Mental Health Day about the importance of turning away from social media and toward community.

In times of stress, many of us instinctively reach for our phones. We scroll to self-soothe—yet the opposite occurs. Social media use can heighten anxiety, activate the nervous system, and disrupt sleep, all of which worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression. We are wired for connection, and we heal in relationship, not in isolation.

Whether your sense of community comes from a place of worship, an artistic pursuit, volunteer work, or time with family and friends, consider making community a priority. Time in community gives us more to bring back to our day-to-day lives—and it’s something we lost during the pandemic. It’s time to reclaim it.