World Mental Health Day 10 October 2025

Access, Safety and Dissociation

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World Mental Health Day falls on 10 October. It is a moment to raise awareness, share support options, and make it easier for people to reach timely care. This year’s global focus is on access to services, especially when life is chaotic or unsafe. Below, we look at why access matters, how crises and chronic stress can heighten dissociation, and simple ways to stay grounded while you reach support.

Why this theme matters

When emergencies hit, needs surge and usual pathways to care can break down. Clear routes into help, calm information, and practical signposting reduce confusion at the very time people feel least able to navigate systems. In the UK, routes now include NHS 111 for urgent mental health advice alongside local services.

Where dissociation fits in

Dissociation is a protective response that can make you feel detached from yourself or your surroundings. In crisis, high arousal and repeated stress can push the nervous system into distancing more often. Signs include feeling on autopilot, time gaps, emotional numbness, or the world seeming flat or far away.

Why this matters for access:

Quick grounding if you are slipping away

Try one or two of these for sixty to ninety seconds:

Finding help in the UK

How communities can improve access

A note for 10 October

Use the day to do one small, concrete thing that improves access for you or someone you care about. Save key numbers into your phone, set a reminder to book an appointment, or share this post with a friend who might need it. The goal is not perfection, it is safer, easier routes to support when life is at its hardest.

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