The World Health Organization announced the focus of its yearly World Mental Health Day that falls on Oct. 10.
The campaign slogan is "Make mental health & well-being for all a global priority," according to a June 3 news release from the organization.
Estimates say there was a rise in depressive and anxiety disorders of more than 25 percent in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, while mental health services have been disrupted, widening the treatment gap for mental conditions.
The organization stressed the effect of the pandemic on mental health worldwide, fueling social and economic inequality, protracted conflicts, violence, and public health emergencies affecting whole populations.
"We must deepen the value and commitment we give to mental health as individuals, communities and governments and match that value with more commitment, engagement and investment by all stakeholders, across all sectors," the organization said in the release. "We must strengthen mental health care so that the full spectrum of mental health needs is met through a community-based network of accessible, affordable and quality services and supports."
The World Health Organization will partner with mental health campaigns, governments, employers, employees and other stakeholders to advocate for what needs to be done to ensure that mental health becomes a global priority for all.
The social media hashtag recognizing the campaign is #WorldMentalHealthDay.