Each year on Oct. 10, World Mental Health Day is observed to raise awareness of mental health issues and advocate for improved access to care. This year’s theme is “It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.” The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) stands firmly in support of this significant day, recognizing the critical role mental health plays in the well-being of individuals and communities.
World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to promote the importance of high-quality mental health practices across the globe. The overall agenda works to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and bring hope to people worldwide.
NBCC remains committed as a reliable source for counselors to obtain education and resources to increase their knowledge and meet their needs. We are dedicated to collaborating with our partners and within coalitions to reach as many people as possible to raise awareness, and to provide the information needed by counselors to perform at the highest level.
In recognition of World Mental Health Day, here are some of the ways we focus our efforts to increase access to care and advocate for counselors, the profession, and the clients counselors serve:
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Awareness and Education: We support educating the public about mental health conditions, reducing stigma, and promoting understanding. We believe that knowledge is power; by informing individuals about mental health, we can foster a more empathic and supportive society. We will continue to share updates and news to increase education and raise awareness of these important issues.
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Advocacy for Services: We advocate for accessible mental health services and act on the urgent need for policy changes to ensure that everyone has access to support. To learn more about our advocacy efforts, visit the NBCC Action Center.
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Community Engagement: We promoted mental health awareness encouraging communities to come together to create a network of support for individuals facing mental health challenges. We see this as essential for building resilient communities. We hope you will join the NBCC community by becoming an advocate as a part of our Counselor Advocacy Network.
- Credentialing: We establish a consistent benchmark for competency, ethical practice, public protection, and ongoing training for those serving the public.
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Professional Development: We encourage mental health professionals to engage in continued education (CE) and advocacy. By staying informed about new research and practices, counselors can provide the best possible care to their clients. Through the CCE Academy, NBCC and our affiliates work to offer low- and even no-cost CE events monthly and on demand, accessible from anywhere you have an internet connection.
World Mental Health Day serves as a vital reminder of the importance of awareness and advocacy. NBCC encourages counselors and others to engage in this essential conversation. By working together, we can create a more informed, compassionate, and supportive society.
