By Zoila Palma: As World Mental Health Day approaches on October 10, 2026, this year’s observance is being held under the theme, “Lived experiences heard: Real voices, real change.”
The Ministry of Health and Wellness is inviting everyone to join a mental health awareness walk through the streets of Belize City on Wednesday, October 7, beginning at 5:15 p.m. at the ITVET campus.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says this year’s campaign aims to meaningfully engage people with lived experience (PWLE) of mental health conditions and recognize their experiences and knowledge as a vital form of expertise.
WHO says people with lived experience are too often asked to share their stories but are excluded from decisions involving policies, services and systems that directly affect their lives.
WHO noted that meaningful engagement must go beyond simply giving people an opportunity to speak. It should create opportunities for people with lived experience to influence decisions, co-design mental health services, strengthen peer-led approaches, challenge stigma and improve accountability. WHO says when these voices are meaningfully included, mental health systems can become more person-centred, rights-based and responsive to people’s needs.
This year, WHO is also launching practical guidance on deinstitutionalization, emphasizing the need for careful planning and investment in community services and support.
The post Join the World Mental Health Day walkathon! appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: As World Mental Health Day approaches on October 10, 2026, this year’s observance is being held under the theme, “Lived experiences heard: Real voices, real change.” The Ministry of Health and Wellness is inviting everyone to join a mental health awareness walk through the streets of Belize City on Wednesday, October 7,
The post Join the World Mental Health Day walkathon! appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
