UN secretary general António Guterres has called on countries to break down the barriers that prevent people suffering from mental health conditions from seeking support.

Mr Guterres made the call on Tuesday in his message to mark the World Mental Health Day marked every October 10. The message was to raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect mental health as a universal human right.

The global commemoration has ‘Mental Health is a Universal Human Right’ as this year’s theme.

“Government must provide care that promotes people’s recovery and upholds their rights. This includes strengthening community-based support and integrating psychological help into broader health and social care,” he said.

According to the UN chief, three in four people suffering from a mental health condition receive inadequate treatments or none at all.

He underlined that mental health is vital to humanity, allowing people to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to communities.

“One in eight people globally lives with a mental health condition, with women and young people impacted the most. Many face stigma and discrimination. No good approach to mental health without human rights,” Mr Guterres said.

(NAN)