World Mental Health Day – October 10.

“Mental health is still a taboo subject in Quebec, more so than sexuality. However, it is important that we talk about it,”
Artist Miriane . Majeau. 

Beginning in 1992, the World Federation for Mental Health has pushed for broader acceptance and understanding of mental health. This year’s theme is Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies. 

Over time, WMHDAY has grown into a self-sustaining global movement. From parades and conferences to street-level advocacy and digital campaigns, millions of people now participate in their own unique ways. Institutions like the World Health Organization and the United Nations have embraced October 10th as a cornerstone of global mental health awareness. The rise of social media amplified our reach exponentially, and in 2019, we unveiled the first official WMHDAY logo-now a lasting symbol of unity and advocacy. That same year, we reached over 10 million people online, a milestone that affirmed WMHDAY’s place as one of the world’s leading mental health awareness days.
The History of World Mental Health Day – World Mental Health Day

 

The Puzzle
Mental Health
Issued by Canada Post in 2011
Semi-postal
Designed by Anne Tardif, Kosta Tsetsekas, Miriane Majeau and Signals

The Puzzle was the work of Terrebonne, Quebec artist Miriane Majeau. Her work was the winning entry in Canada Post’s first public design contest that saw over 300 entries and 286,000 votes.  The issue was part of Canada Post’s time honoured Canada Post Foundation initiative which uses a portion of the sale funds to fund community programs. A dollar from each booklet sale went to the Canada Post Foundation for Mental Health.

“I’m very proud that my design connected with people. Dealing with mental health issues can be like putting a puzzle together,” Ms. Majeau noted. “But as the puzzle comes together, as you find the right pieces and connect them in the right way, something beautiful and whole is revealed.”

Ms. Majeau donated her $500 honorarium to La Fondation les petits trésors de l’Hôpital Rivière-des-Prairies, a mental health charity.

World Mental Health Day serves as a powerful reminder that there is no health without mental health. This year’s campaign focuses on the urgent need to support the mental health and psychosocial needs of people affected by humanitarian emergencies.

Crises such as natural disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies cause emotional distress, with one in five individuals experiencing a mental health condition. Supporting the mental well-being of individuals during such crises is not just important – it saves lives, gives people the strength to cope, the space to heal and to recover and rebuild not only as individuals but as communities. That’s why it is essential for everyone, including government officials, health and social care providers, school staff and community groups to come together. By working hand in hand, we can ensure the most vulnerable have access to the support they need while protecting the well-being of everyone.  
World Mental Health Day 2025

2024 honoured Canadian politician Pierre Laporte, a victim of terrorism.