October 10th is World Mental Health Day

October 10, 2019

Fact:  Around 20% of the world’s children and adolescents have mental health disorders.

Approximately half of mental health disorders begin before the age of 14.

Fact: Mental health and substance use disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide.

About 23% of lost time because of disability is caused by mental and substance use disorders.

Fact: Close to 800,000 people die due to suicide every year worldwide.

There are indications that for each adult who died by suicide, there may be 20 others attempting suicide.

Fact:  War and disasters have a large impact on mental health and psycho-social well-being.

Rates of mental disorder tend to double after emergencies.

Fact: Mental health disorders are risk factors for developing other diseases.

Mental health disorders increase the risk of getting ill from diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and visa-versa.

Fact: Stigma and discrimination prevent people from seeking mental health services.

Stigma and discrimination can lead to abuse, rejection and isolation, and exclude people from healthcare and support.

If you or one of your dependents are struggling with mental illness, please contact MEND at (212) 366-7590 or MEND@nyccbf.org.