Photo: WBZ NewsRadio
MEDFORD, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Friday is World Mental Health Day — a day to challenge the stigmas surrounding mental health conditions.
First observed in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, World Mental Health Day was created to raise awareness and promote mental health advocacy. Now, thousands of people come together to observe the day and highlight the effects of mental illness on individuals and their families. Bay Staters shared what they do to maintain their emotional equilibrium.
"It's definitely coffee. Coffee and trying to find hobbies to keep myself amused," one local said.
Others like Brandon from Medford said staying social helps regulate his mental health.
"Personally, I mean, I've been sort of playing video games lately as a way to stay connected with friends and everything like that."
And some keep their sanity by touching grass.
"Just get outside. Get some fresh air. Get away from everything. Relax," another resident said.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated one in five adults in the U.S. live with a mental illness with conditions ranging from mild to severe. Matt from Medford thinks that one day isn't enough to highlight the importance of the day.
"I think it should be more than a day. I think it should be a week or a month."
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health issue, there are several resources available:
-In life-threatening situations, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
-If you are suicidal or in emotional distress, consider using calling or texting 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Call or text 988 or start a chat online to connect with a trained crisis counselor. The Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
-If you are a veteran, consider using the Veterans Crisis Line - Call 988, then press “1.” You can also text 838255 or chat online . The Veterans Crisis Line is a 24-hour, confidential resource that connects veterans with a trained responder. The service is available to all veterans and those who support them, even if they are not registered with the VA or enrolled in VA healthcare.
-If you have experienced a disaster, consider using the Disaster Distress Helpline - Call or text 1-800-985-5990. The Disaster Distress Helpline provides immediate crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. The 24-hour, confidential helpline offers interpretation services in more than 100 languages.
-If you see concerning social media messages, contact the company’s safety team. Social media companies have safety teams that can reach out to connect the person with the help they need.
WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas (@JamesRojas.bsky.social) reports