DUSHANBE, October 10, 2009, Asia-Plus  -- World Mental Health Day, which is marked on October 10, is a day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy.

It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries.  In some countries this day is part of the larger Mental Illness Awareness Week.

The World Health Organization (WHO) notes World Mental Health Day raises public awareness about mental health issues.  Mental, neurological, and substance use (MNS) disorders are common in all regions of the world. People with these disorders are often subjected to social isolation, poor quality of life and higher death rates.

Worldwide, studies have shown that between 12–48% of people will suffer from mental disorders at some point during their life. Mental disorders are treatable and people with these disorders will rarely need specialist treatment. Most of them can be treated in primary care.  WHO is trying to narrow the chasm between the needs and the services with its mental health Gap Action Program (mhGAP).