Honoring World Mental Health Day: The Importance of Prioritizing Mental Well-Being

Published on

October 6, 2025

As we approach World Mental Health Day on October 10th, it's a timely reminder to pause and
reflect on the vital role mental health plays in our lives.1 In a fast-paced world filled with
stressors, from work demands to personal challenges, maintaining good mental health isn't just
beneficial—it's essential for overall well-being. At Water Lantern Festival, we believe in creating
spaces for reflection, release, and healing, which is why we're excited to tie this into our ongoing
initiatives.

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What Is Mental Health and Why Does It Matter?

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Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of
life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well.2 It encompasses emotional, psychological,
and social aspects that influence how we think, feel, and act. When mental health is prioritized,
it leads to better physical health, stronger relationships, and increased productivity. Conversely,
poor mental health can exacerbate physical conditions, such as heart disease or weakened
immune systems, highlighting the interconnectedness of mind and body.

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Globally, mental health issues are alarmingly prevalent. Nearly 1 in 7 people worldwide live with
a mental disorder, which can severely disrupt daily life and lead to long-term challenges.4 In the
United States alone, more than one in five adults experiences mental illness each year.5 These
conditions account for a significant portion of the global burden of disease, with mental
disorders responsible for 1 in 6 years lived with disability.6 Tragically, people with severe mental
health conditions often die 10 to 20 years earlier than the general population due to preventable
physical health issues and other factors.

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Among younger populations, the statistics are particularly concerning. One in seven
adolescents aged 10-19 experiences a mental disorder, representing 15% of the global disease
burden in this group.8 Despite these numbers, access to treatment remains a barrier—only
about half of those with mental illnesses receive the care they need.9 This underscores the
urgent need for greater awareness, reduced stigma, and improved resources to support mental
health worldwide.

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Simple Ways to Support Your Mental Health

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Taking care of your mental health doesn't require grand gestures. Small, consistent actions can
make a big difference:

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Practice Mindfulness and Reflection: Activities like journaling or meditation help process emotions and reduce stress.
Build Strong Connections: Social support from friends and family is crucial for emotional resilience.
Seek Professional Help When Needed: Therapy or counseling can provide tools to manage challenges effectively.
Engage in Healing Rituals: Events that encourage release and renewal, such as the Water Lantern Festival, offer symbolic ways to let go of burdens.

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By integrating these habits, we can foster a healthier society where mental health is valued as
much as physical health.

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Join Our "What Are You Letting Go Of" Giveaway

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In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month this October, Water Lantern Festival is hosting a
special giveaway to encourage reflection and release.10 Titled "What Are You Letting Go Of
Giveaway," this is your chance to pause, reflect on what no longer serves you, and enter for a
shot at winning tickets to our magical events.

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We're giving away 5 prize packs, each including 4 tickets to any 2025 Water Lantern Festival
event. These festivals provide a serene atmosphere where participants can write messages on
lanterns, release them onto the water, and symbolize letting go—perfect for supporting mental
well-being.

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Here's how to enter:

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Follow @waterlanternfestival on Instagram.
Like the giveaway post.
Comment one thing you're letting go of this Mental Health Month.
For a bonus entry, share the post to your story.

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The giveaway closes on October 7th, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST, with winners announced on
October 10th—World Mental Health Day. Tickets are valid for any 2025 event, so you can
choose a location and date that works for you.

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Head over to the post now: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPRVVroDMwD/?img_index=1 and
share what you're releasing this season. Let's make Mental Health Day a moment of collective
healing and hope.

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At Water Lantern Festival, we're committed to creating experiences that nurture the soul.
Whether through our events or this giveaway, we hope to inspire you to prioritize your mental
health every day. If you're struggling, remember: help is available. Reach out to a trusted
professional or organization for support.

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Stay connected with us for more updates, and let's light up the world—one lantern at a time. 💛