Each July 18, we honor the legacy of Dr. Aaron T. Beck and raise awareness about Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) by hosting an annual day of service. During this global event, CBT fans and practitioners around the world pledge to engage in one activity to improve mental health in their communities.
Last year, we were happy to hear from hundreds of people who joined us on our first Aaron T. Beck Day. People from nearly every continent participated and let their communities know how CBT can help in everyday life and in times of distress. Hundreds more reached out to let us know what Dr. Beck meant to them. You can watch some of those interviews here:
We have already received many responses to this year’s call to action. Here are a few highlights:
- Vikki from Australia plans on giving a free talk on her local radio station to increase mental health literacy in remote locations of the Australian Outback.
- Burak from Turkey provides free support to victims of the recent earthquake in their country. They will expand this effort during the month of July and share information on CBT with their network.
- Barry from the US plans to dedicate this day to ensuring the safety and well-being of his older brother, who has a developmental disability. He pledges to make sure his brother is receiving the care he needs.
- Cristina from Romania will host a free depression screening day.
- Michael from the US plans to promote access to quality mental health services for people from low socioeconomic status communities.
- Mrunali from India will be spreading awareness about the importance of mental health and helping school children and adolescents in dealing with mental health issues.
There are so many ways to get involved in your community. What do you plan to do on July 18?