Since 1992, October 10th has seen thousands of supporters celebrate World Mental Health Day. Started by the World Federation for Mental Health, this year’s theme is ‘Dignity in Mental Health-Psychological & Mental Health First Aid for All.’ Today in Washington, D.C. the Destination Dignity Coalition is hosting a march to “demand dignity for individuals with mental health conditions.”
In a unified voice with supporters, providers, family and friends, people living with mental health conditions will call for an end to unconscionable levels of unemployment, incarceration, homelessness and disability. An end to underfunding of services, harsh practices and fail-first systems in which involuntary status is requirement for care. An end to negative portrayals and scapegoating. An end to a society in which people with mental health conditions die up to twenty-five years before the rest of the population. A beginning to a new era in which every one faced with mental health challenges is supported to get the right kind of help when needed, and valued in their communities nationwide.
There is also an digital rally for those outside of the D.C. area to participate and have a conversation about issues surrounding mental health in America. To join the conversation on social media, use the hashtag #MHDignityMarch or visit http://www.destinationdignity.org/
