President calls for empathy, awareness to improve mental well-being

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has urged all to treat people experiencing mental health problems with empathy and respect and underscored the need for ensuring proper mental healthcare and support from families and communities.

"I call for strengthening mental health awareness activities at health centres and educational institutions, alongside public and private initiatives, to ensure the overall mental well-being of all citizens," he said.

In a message issued on Friday ahead of World Mental Health Day 2026, to be observed on Saturday, the president welcomed the initiative to mark the day in Bangladesh, in line with celebrations around the world.

"Mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, working capacity and quality of life," he said, adding that changing global circumstances, economic instability, social unrest, loneliness, drug addiction, family and workplace pressures and other daily challenges are having a profound impact on people's mental health.

"Therefore, mental well-being is as important as physical health," he added.

Describing this year's theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”, as timely and significant, the president said it emphasises the importance of listening to people who directly experience mental health problems and giving due consideration to their perspectives in policymaking and service planning.

The government, he said, had taken various initiatives to bring mental health services closer to people and integrate them into primary healthcare.

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The president also highlighted the crucial role of families and communities in identifying mental health problems and ensuring access to appropriate care.

He also underscored the importance of raising public awareness about seeking appropriate medical treatment instead of relying on faith healing or other unscientific practices.

Expressing hope that collective efforts would help build a mentally healthy and productive nation, the President wished success to all programmes undertaken to mark World Mental Health Day 2026.