International Human Rights Days

October 10 is observed annually as World Mental Health Day, established in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) under guidance of the World Health Organization (WHO). The event focuses on raising awareness of mental health issues and promoting actions to improve mental well-being worldwide. A new agenda highlights an emerging priority every year. For instance,  “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right,” was the theme for 2023 while the 2025 theme aimed at “Mental Health in Humanitarian Emergencies,” emphasizing the urgency  for psychosocial support in conflict areas and crises.

According to WHO’s 2019 worldwide estimates, 970 million people lived with a mental illness with anxiety where depression was the most common one. Despite the increasing recognition of mental health as an integral part of human health,  striking  disparities exist. A report from WHO Mental Health Atlas (2020) stated a median of 13 mental health workers per 100,000 population globally but the number decreased below 2 per 100,000 in low-income countries. Individuals are often prevented from seeking help due to stigma, cultural taboos and limited resources providing no essential care or protection to millions. These inequalities cause both health problems and violation of fundamental human rights; specifically the rights to health, dignity and non-discrimination.

The framework of human rights highlights mental health as one of the key global instruments including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 25) and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Every individual has the right to have the highest standard of mental health and physical health, stigma or neglect free is affirmed in both. WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2030 responded by integrating human rights into all national mental health policies, ensuring participation, promoting community-based services, autonomy and respect for psychosocially disabled persons.

Stigma and normalizing mental health discussions are challenged by a growing world of advocates through culture and media. One notable instance is BTS, the South Korean pop music boy band having long-standing partnership with UNICEF has expanded awareness of emotional well-being among young generations worldwide. In 2017, “LOVE MYSELF” campaign of BTS promotes self-acceptance and violence prevention. According to UNICEF (2024), not only the campaign has raised approximately US$2.98 million to support UNICEF’s programs protecting children and adolescents worldwide but also BTS as well as BigHit renewed their commitment with an additional US$1 million pledge. BTS has amplified open speaking about one’s emotions. “SPEAK YOURSELF” is an act of strength through their music, UN speeches and social initiatives which are closely aligned with WHO’s principle of mental health being an universal right.

Mental health improvement requires sustained investment, inclusion and human dignity respect. Funding should be expanded by governments for community-based care and protection of individuals from discrimination or coercion in every sphere of life. Civil society, cultural leaders and international organizations like WHO and UNICEF play a vital role in promoting awareness and compassion. As the world notes World Mental Health Day, recognizing emotional well-being is not an option and mental health is a human right that is essential for human life, freedom, and equality.