Civic Act, Commemoration of World Mental Health Day 2025

World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10 each year, with the aim of raising awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health. This year's theme is “It's time to prioritize mental health in the workplace.”

Safe and healthy work environments can act as a protective factor for mental health. Unhealthy conditions, such as stigma, discrimination and exposure to risks such as harassment and other poor working conditions, can pose significant risks that affect mental health, overall quality of life and, consequently, participation or productivity at work.

Mental health issues have a direct impact on workplaces by increasing absenteeism, reducing productivity, and increasing healthcare costs. However, stigma and lack of mental health awareness persist as barriers to addressing mental health in the workplace.

With 60% of the world's population working, urgent action is needed to ensure work prevents mental health risks and protects and supports mental health at work. Employers and coworkers can be agents of change in the workplace by combating stigma and encouraging open discussion about mental health. They can also learn to identify signs of common mental health problems, such as depression, and encourage colleagues who may be struggling to seek help.