It is vital that we break the stigma of mental health

Initiatives such as the Darkness into Light walks bring the issue out of the shadows

A shot from the Darkness into Light walk, in Abu Dhabi. Khushnum Bhandari for The National

On Saturday, just before dawn, thousands of people gathered at four locations across the UAE for the Darkness into Light walk – a charitable event in support of those affected by suicide, depression and anxiety.

Many marched in honour of loved ones, some of whom had sadly taken their own lives. Others took part because they, themselves, live with mental health issues.

"We've had over 1,600 people walk," Maria Kelly, chairperson of Darkness into Light Abu Dhabi told The National, "it just goes to show how many lives mental illness has touched."

Despite these numbers, a powerful stigma still hangs over matters of mental health. This prevents many from seeking life-changing help. With the World Health Organisation estimating that one person dies from suicide every 40 seconds, we cannot afford to ignore this problem any longer. When we suffer physical ailments, we visit a doctor with no shame or guilt. The same should apply to mental health issues.

Luckily, around the world, the tide is turning. The recently published 2019 Arab Youth Survey showed that almost one-third of respondents personally know someone experiencing mental health issues, and that the majority find it difficult to access mental health care in their countries. However, they are willing to talk about it, and that is an important first step. While mental illness can touch anyone, regardless of their life experience, it has reached epidemic proportions in conflict-riven nations.

Initiatives such as Saturday’s marches not only shed light on these issues. By raising awareness, they help to make guidance and support more accessible to those who need it.

The proceeds from the walks will go to the Al Jalila Foundation, which aims to establish a free mental health support network in the UAE. However, there is plenty more work to be done, at both personal and structural levels.

For instance, we can all play a part in dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health, while medical insurance providers should ensure that coverage includes treatment for mental health issues. After all, no one deserves to suffer in silence, especially when solutions exist.