News & Information

World Mental Health Day, observed globally on October 10, reminds us that mental health is central to overall well-being, especially during times of crisis. The 2025 theme, Access to Services—Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies, highlights the urgent need to support those affected by disasters, conflicts, and other emergencies. Unexpected events can upend lives, homes, families, and workplaces. That’s why it’s important to understand how catastrophes and emergencies affect mental health, what barriers stand in the way of care, and how to best support those most in need.

Every year, millions experience the effects of emergencies and catastrophic events. One in five people affected by a crisis experience a mental health condition. While not everyone who goes through a traumatic event develops a diagnosable condition, nearly everyone faces emotional distress, often in the form of grief, fear, or sadness, according to the World Health Organization. After unimaginable loss, homes may be destroyed, families torn apart, and communities left devasted. In these moments, access to mental health care, precisely when it’s needed most, can be especially difficult to find.

Employers can play a critical role in helping employees navigate these challenges by providing stability, resources, and support. Here are some meaningful steps to help employees when they may need it most:

• Develop a crisis plan. Before an emergency occurs, establish clear protocols for handling a catastrophe and supporting employees, with special attention to access to mental health resources. Consider building in communication procedures, flexible work policies, and guidelines for reallocating workloads—These steps can ease stress and anxiety, helping employees focus on what truly matters.

   

• Prioritize supportive communication. Checking in regularly with employees and their families during a crisis can build trust and reassure them that they are supported both personally and professionally. When leaders reach out directly, it demonstrates empathy and reminds those affected that they are not alone. Consider establishing an open-door policy so anyone who needs support knows they have a trusted place to turn.

   

• Offer job security assurance. During a crisis, the fear of losing a job can intensify stress and further take a toll on mental health. Reassuring employees that their jobs are secure through clear, consistent messaging can boost psychological safety, support retention, and (most importantly) allow them to focus on their personal well-being and safety.

   

• Provide resources, support, and guidance. Extend help by proactively educating employees on company-sponsored services, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs) or other mental health resources, so they know what's available before a crisis hits. Remind them of these resources during an emergency, and consider sharing additional resources for meals, clothing, school supplies, or financial assistance. Acknowledging the challenges of the situation while providing support helps employees feel seen, heard, and cared for.

It’s important to remind those experiencing a catastrophic event that there’s no right or wrong way to feel. Everyone reacts differently, and emotions can vary widely. Having trusted people (both personally and professionally) to listen, validate feelings, and provide support can help individuals cope during what might be unimaginable times—In some cases, this support can be truly lifesaving.

If you or someone you know has been affected by a disaster and are looking for support, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) at 1-800-985-5990.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for support in the U.S.

Call or text 9-8-8 or visit Get Help | 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline for support in Canada.

Resources

World Mental Health Day 2025 Campaign Toolkit (wmhdofficial.com)

World Mental Health Day 2025 (who.int)

Coping Tips for Traumatic Events and Disasters (samhsa.gov)