10 October 2026 — UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on governments to invest in community-based mental health care and involve people with lived experience in decisions about services and policies.
His World Mental Health Day message highlights the expertise of people facing mental health challenges. The 2026 theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”, places their participation at the centre of the observance.
Guterres warned that young people face pressures from economic uncertainty, climate anxiety and online harms. Conflict and humanitarian emergencies can increase distress when essential services are disrupted.
He said more than 80 per cent of countries provide mental health services in psychiatric hospitals, while many people would prefer support that allows them to recover in their homes and communities.
The message links effective support to access to housing, education, employment and social assistance, calling for services grounded in dignity and individual rights.
WHO’s campaign likewise urges meaningful participation in decisions and a carefully planned transition towards community care. Together, the messages call for governments to turn consultation into practical changes in mental health systems.
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Illustrative nature photograph, not a clinical event or a depiction of treatment. Photo: Ümit Bulut / Unsplash.