Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies

Mental Health Awareness takes place 10th October. The theme for this year is “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies”, highlighting the urgent need for mental health and psychosocial support in times of crisis and humanitarian need.

The theme emphasizes the importance of ensuring mental health services are accessible to people impacted by disasters, conflict, and displacement.  It also underscores the need to support the mental health of colleagues and humanitarian workers delivering these essential services in challenging environments.

Mental Health?

Mental health refers to a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how individuals think, feel, and behave, as well as how they handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood.

Why Mental Health Matters

• It influences physical health.
• It impacts productivity and performance at work.
• It shapes relationships and social interactions.
• Good mental health contributes to the overall quality of life

Common Mental Health Conditions:

• Anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Risk Factors to Mental Health?

• Biological: Genetic vulnerability, brain imbalances, chronic illnesses, and prenatal harm.
• Psychological: Childhood trauma, low self-esteem, and negative thought patterns.
• Social/Environmental: Poverty, job loss, poor living conditions, violence, isolation, and discrimination.
• Lifestyle: Substance use, poor sleep, inactivity, unhealthy diet, and prolonged stress.
• Life Events: Grief, divorce, major illness, and displacement from disasters.

Note: Having one or more of these risk factors doesn’t mean someone will develop a mental health condition - it just raises the risk. Protective factors can reduce that risk significantly.

Protective factors:

• Personal Strengths – High self-esteem, optimism, emotional awareness, healthy lifestyle, and a sense of purpose.
• Supportive Relationships – Strong family bonds, friendships, social networks, and a stable home environment.
• Community & Environment – Safe, inclusive communities with access to education, employment, and mental health services.
• Positive Engagement – Involvement in cultural, faith-based, or recreational activities, with access to mentors and role models.
• Resilience Resources – Opportunities for growth, reduced stigma, and encouragement to seek help when needed.

It’s time to share your experiences and what community means to you using the hashtag #ThisIsMyCommunity on social media platforms.