World Mental Health Day 2021

World Mental Health Day will take place on Sunday, October 10th and this year will recognise the impact of the global pandemic over the past 18 months.

Organisers say the Coronavirus crisis has had a major impact on people’s mental health, particularly on frontline workers, including those in essential transport roles.

They are also raising concerns that treatment for sufferers has been significantly disrupted during the pandemic.

At the recent World Health Assembly, governments from around the world agreed to scale up quality mental health services at all levels.

World Mental Health Day organisers say the initiative provides a valuable platform for world leaders to make quality mental health care for all a reality and to talk about recent developments and plans for the future.

Research shows that around one billion people globally have a mental health issue. Depression is the most common, with around 5% of adults in the world suffering at any one time.

Researchers say that even before young people enter the world of work, one in seven is affected by a mental health condition.

The lost productivity resulting from depression and anxiety, two of the most common conditions, costs the global economy £700 billion each year.

Campaigners point out that for every £1 invested in treatment for depression and anxiety, there is a return of £5. For every £1 invested in treatment for drug dependence, there is a return of up to £7 in reduced crime and criminal justice costs.

As part of the campaign, the WHO has published a series of fact files, including two on how to prevent depression in teenagers and adults.

Reflex Vehicle Hire works closely with mental health organisations to promote driver wellbeing as part of the Welfare of Reflex Drivers programme (WORD).

WORD is focused on helping our clients to talk more openly with their drivers about health and wellbeing.

Our work includes distributing special vehicle packs containing guidance for drivers, while vehicles have stickers that provide details of a telephone helpline and website that drivers can use if they need help and support.

We also organise internal mental health initiatives to promote wellbeing among Reflex employees.

For details on World Mental Health Day, visit https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-mental-health-day/2021

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