The local mental health organisation will tomorrow mark the World Mental Health Day, date that is recognised each year on October 10, to raise awareness of mental health issues globally and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health.

Mereana Taikoko, the founder and chief executive officer of Te Kainga O Pa Taunga, the Cook Islands mental health organisation, says, on Sunday a special lunch will be hosted at the Cook Islands Family Welfare (CIFWA) headquarters to acknowledge the day.

The day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and see what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has had a major impact on people’s mental health. Some groups, including health and other frontline workers, students, people living alone, and those with pre-existing mental health conditions, have been particularly affected. And services for mental, neurological and substance use disorders have been significantly disrupted,” said a statement from Te Kainga O Pa Taunga.

During the World Health Assembly in May 2021, governments from around the world recognised the need to scale up quality mental health services at all levels. And some countries have found new ways of providing mental health care to their populations.

This year’s campaign will showcase the efforts made in several countries and encourage people to highlight positive stories as an inspiration to others.

The campaign slogan is: “Mental health care for all: let’s make it a reality”.