This World Mental Health Day, we want people everywhere, to take a WHOLE HOUR for themselves.
On Thursday 10 October 2019, we are encouraging people and all YMCAs to take an hour out of their day to do something to support their mental wellbeing.
ABOUT WHOLE HOUR
Each year an estimated 20% of children and young people worldwide experience mental health difficulties.
We believe that no young person, no matter who they are, what their
background is, or where they are in the world, should ever feel isolated, marginalised or discriminated against because of their mental health.
#IAMWHOLE and YMCA are on a mission to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health difficulties and encourage young people to speak out, seek help and get support.
On the 10th October 2019, we are inspiring a movement that encourages people to take an hour out of their day (preferably from midday to 1pm) to do something to support their mental wellbeing.
WHOLE HOUR aims to recognise and champion the importance of self care and taking time to look after your mental health.
About #IAMWHOLE
What is #IAMWHOLE?
#IAMWHOLE is an anti-stigma mental health campaign. The #IAMWHOLE campaign was launched in England & Wales on World Mental Health Day 2016.
Why was the #IAMWHOLE campaign developed?
Now the biggest health concern of a generation, mental health difficulties are costing young people their relationships, education, employment prospects, and without action, their lives.
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10-20% of children and young people worldwide experience a mental health difficulty
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1 in 2 of all cases of mental health difficulties begin by the age of 14
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220,000 children and young people worldwide took their own lives last year
Despite the significant numbers affected and increased public awareness, there is still a stigma surrounding mental health difficulties.
What does the #IAMWHOLE campaign aim to do?
The #IAMWHOLE campaign aims to tackle mental health stigma and encourage young people to speak out, seek help and get support. The #IAMWHOLE campaign seeks to tackle stigma in three key ways:
- Talking – Starting conversation with young people about mental health
- Educating – Educating young people about mental health
- Sharing – Encouraging young people to share their experiences of mental health difficulties
If you have any questions or would like more information about WHOLE HOUR or the #IAMWHOLE campaign, please get in touch:
YMCA North Staffordshire Youth Ambassador at Jerahl.Hall@ymcans.org.uk
YMCA England & Wales Campaigns Officer at Shamima.Blake@ymca.org.uk.