09/10/2025
World Mental Health Day,10 October 2025
Mental health in humanitarian emergencies
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.
By investing in evidence and community-based interventions, we can address immediate mental health needs, foster long-term recovery, and empower people and communities to rebuild their lives and thrive.
On this World Mental Health Day, let us intensify our efforts to create a world where mental health is valued, protected, and accessible for all, especially in the face of adversity.
Did you know?
Mental health and psychosocial support are essential
During crises, nearly everyone experiences distress and social disruption. Homes are lost, families are separated, and communities are fractured. While one in five people may have a mental health condition, nearly everyone affected experiences emotional distress and disrupted community ties. These impacts often remain long after physical safety is restored, undermining recovery and resilience. People with significant mental health conditions must not be left without care and support. Continuity of care is a priority during and following any emergency.
Migrants and refugees face mental health risks across their journey
Migrants and refugees face multiple stressors throughout their journey – from conflict and displacement to dangerous journeys and integration challenges in host countries. By the end of 2024, over 123 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide. A staggering 71% of them are hosted in low- and middle-income countries, where health-care systems are already under strain. In these settings, access to mental health services is extremely limited.
Key messages
Mental health in emergencies
Conflicts, disasters, and health emergencies take a heavy toll on mental health. Around 1 in 5 people in conflict-affected areas are estimated to have a mental health condition. Experiencing fear, anxiety or sadness in such circumstances is a normal reaction to very stressful events.
Mental health is essential for rebuilding lives
Beyond food, water, and medicine, survivors also need mental health and psychosocial support to cope, recover, and rebuild.
Integrating mental health strengthens emergency response
Making mental health and psychosocial support a core part of emergency response not only saves lives but also strengthens communities and health systems for the future.
Investing in mental health is investing in recovery
Investing in mental health and psychosocial support helps families, communities, and economies recover from crises, build long-term resilience, and shape stronger health systems.
Mental health care saves lives
The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Minimum Service Package offers proven solutions in emergencies, ensuring timely, coordinated care that reduces suffering, strengthens well-being, and builds more inclusive responses.
Inclusive mental health care leads to stronger communities
Inclusive support must reach children, older people, persons with disabilities, refugees, and people with pre-existing mental health conditions, including those in institutions. Addressing barriers such as stigma, discrimination, costs, and language is essential.
Protect your mental health
Prioritize your mental health by staying connected, being physically active, and following routines. Minimize alcohol use, engage in meaningful and enjoyable activities, and seek support from trusted friends, family, or health professionals.
Promoting mental well-being through various approaches
A layered approach – from self-help tools and Psychological First Aid to specialized mental health services – ensures accessible, efficient, and responsive support for all.
Protect the well-being of humanitarian workers
Humanitarian workers face extreme stress and are often directly affected by the crises they respond to. Organizations should provide rest, supervision, peer support, and workplace mental health programmes to sustain an effective humanitarian response.
