World Mental Health Day
A global day, held every 10 October, for raising awareness of mental health and pushing for better support and care everywhere.
- UK
- USA
- International
About the day
World Mental Health Day takes place on 10 October every year. It was started by the World Federation for Mental Health and first marked in 1992. Since 1994 each year has had its own theme, chosen to focus attention on one part of mental health and care.
The World Health Organization supports the day, working with governments and health groups to share information and campaign materials. Charities, employers, schools and health services around the world use it to start conversations about mental health and to point people towards help.
In the UK it sits alongside Mental Health Awareness Week in May, which is a separate campaign run by the Mental Health Foundation.
2026 theme
Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change
The 2027 theme has not been announced yet.
Dates for the next three years
| Year | Date | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | Sunday 10 October 2027 | UK, USA, International | Same date every year |
| 2028 | Tuesday 10 October 2028 | UK, USA, International | Same date every year |
| 2029 | Wednesday 10 October 2029 | UK, USA, International | Same date every year |
If you need support now
In the UK, you can call Samaritans free, day or night, on 116 123. In the USA, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Anywhere else, contact your local emergency or health services.
Questions and answers
When is World Mental Health Day 2027?
World Mental Health Day 2027 is on Sunday 10 October 2027. It is held on 10 October every year.
Who runs World Mental Health Day?
The World Federation for Mental Health started the day in 1992 and still leads it each year. The World Health Organization supports it.
What is the theme for World Mental Health Day?
The 2026 theme was "Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change". The organiser announces each new theme on its website.
What hashtag should I use?
#WorldMentalHealthDay is the most widely used. The organiser has not published an official hashtag.
Is it the same as Mental Health Awareness Week?
No. Mental Health Awareness Week is a separate UK campaign run by the Mental Health Foundation each May.
Where this information comes from
- World Mental Health Day official website (World Federation for Mental Health)
- World Health Organization: World Mental Health Day
- World Federation for Mental Health
Spotted a mistake? If you run this day, claim it to correct it.