World Mental Health Day 2025: Let’s Talk About It — Because It’s Okay Not to Be Okay

By Dr Tariq Jagnarine
Fam Med, Endocrinology/Diabetes

Every year on October 10, the world observes World Mental Health Day — a time to pause and reflect on one of the most important yet often ignored parts of our well-being: our minds. This year’s theme, “Mental Health Is a Universal Right,” reminds us that just as we all deserve access to clean water, education, and healthcare, we also deserve peace of mind and emotional support.
In every community, there are people silently struggling — the friend who seems quieter lately, the mother who feels overwhelmed, the young man who smiles but feels empty inside. Mental health issues are not a sign of weakness or failure; they are part of being human.
What is mental health really?
Mental health is not just the absence of mental illness — it’s about how we think, feel, and act each day. It affects how we handle stress, make decisions, relate to others, and find purpose.
Just as we care for our bodies through exercise and healthy food, we must also care for our emotional fitness. The truth is, anyone can experience mental health challenges, regardless of age, status, or profession.

Recognising the signs
Mental health struggles can show up in many ways. Look out for these signs in yourself or others:
• Constant sadness or emptiness
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Loss of appetite or overeating
• Feeling tired all the time
• Anger, irritability, or mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness
• Loss of interest in things once enjoyed
When these feelings last more than two weeks or interfere with daily life, it’s important to seek help – just like you would for a fever or chest pain.

Coping and self-care
Taking care of your mental health doesn’t always require a therapist or medication — though those can help. Small, everyday habits make a big difference:
• Talk about your feelings. Sharing your thoughts with someone you trust can lift a heavy burden.
• Stay active. Even a 15-minute walk can boost mood and reduce stress.
• Eat well and stay hydrated. What you put in your body affects how your brain feels.
• Rest. Quality sleep resets the mind and body.
• Pray, meditate, or reflect. Spiritual practices bring inner calm.
• Do something you enjoy. Music, reading, gardening — joy heals.
• Seek professional help. Therapists, doctors, and hotlines are there to help –
and it’s a sign of strength to reach out.

Prevention starts with awareness
We can prevent many mental health crises through early support and community care.
• Parents should talk to children about emotions early, teaching that it’s okay to feel sad or scared.
• Workplaces should promote wellness — not just productivity.
• Faith leaders, teachers, and friends can be great allies in spotting distress.
• We must invest in mental health services so that help is available to everyone, not only those who can afford it.
When society treats mental health as part of public health — with empathy, not stigma — we all thrive.
Breaking the silence
Too many people still whisper about depression, anxiety, or suicide as though they are secrets to be hidden. But silence only deepens the pain.
Talking openly about mental health does not make it worse — it saves lives.
If you notice someone struggling, reach out. A simple message like “I’ve noticed you’re quiet — are you okay?” can open a door to healing. Sometimes, being heard is the first step towards recovery.
Moving forward together
Let’s remember:
It’s okay not to be okay.
Mental health care is health care.
Each of us can be the helping hand someone needs.
Let’s build a Guyana – and a world – where no one has to suffer in silence, where mental health is treated with the same care as physical health, and where everyone knows that help, hope, and healing are possible.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to a trusted friend, health worker, or call a national helpline. Your life matters – and support is closer than you think.