Athens, Ga. (October 10, 2025) – This year, the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) marks the 33rd annual World Mental Health Day, Oct. 10, by spotlighting the urgent need for accessible, culturally sensitive, and sustained mental health support in the wake of catastrophes and emergencies.

Despite growing awareness, access to care remains irregular. In many places, mental health services are scarce or nonexistent during crises. Language barriers, stigma, and lack of trained personnel further hinder support.

World Mental Health Day 2025 is a call to action. As the world experiences increasingly complex emergencies, advocates are working to ensure that mental health care is available, accessible, and equitable for all.

Locally, Piedmont Athens Regional has joined the National Trauma Survivors Network, a vital initiative that connects physical trauma survivors with the resources and support they need during recovery and beyond. This partnership demonstrates Piedmont’s commitment to trauma-informed care and community-based healing, ensuring that individuals affected by traumatic injury have access to compassionate, coordinated mental health services.

Mental health challenges in emergencies extend far beyond post-traumatic stress. Individuals may experience anxiety, depression, grief, substance use, and psychosocial distress. If you or a loved one are a trauma survivor and need support, visit traumasurvivorsnetwork.org or email Piedmont Athens Regional’s Trauma Injury Prevention and Outreach Coordinator at evamaecarignan@piedmont.org.

For more information about World Mental Health Day, visit wfmh.global.