The WHO and Angry Birds Friends team up for World Mental Health Day

4 October 2021 (WHO)

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on new realities for many of us, such as working from home, temporary unemployment, home-schooling of children, and lack of physical contact with family and friends. It all takes time to get used to. Adapting to lifestyle changes such as these, as well as managing the fear of contracting the virus, coupled with worrying about people close to us can all be mentally challenging.

In honour of World Mental Health Day on 10 October, WHO and Angry Birds are teaming up to launch a new Self-Care Tournament on Angry Birds Friends to raise awareness on mental health and provide useful tips to players on how to stay mentally healthy during the pandemic and beyond.

The tournament features 24 brand-new video game levels related to relaxation and healthy living, as well as numerous WHO recommendations and tips. Throughout the week, the tournament will encourage players to take care of their mental health, with the aim of fostering lasting healthier lifestyles at home.

The Self-Care Tournament starts today in Angry Birds Friends. Play now until October 10!

“The pandemic has taken a toll on everyone’s wellbeing, in several different ways. We’re happy to be able to work together with the World Health Organization to remind people about self care and mental health. There’s nothing quite as relaxing as popping egg-stealing piggies!” says COO Kieran O’Leary from Rovio.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on people’s mental health and overall well-being,” said Andy Pattison, Team Lead of Digital Channels at the World Health Organization. “Now, it’s more important than ever to leverage popular digital platforms, such as Angry Birds to empower people to look after themselves both physically and mentally.”

4 October 2021 (WHO)

Recommended readings

• Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013 – 2030
• National Mental Health Strategy & Action Plan 2077
• Mental Health for All! Greater Investment–Greater Access.
• National Mental Health Survey, Nepal-2020 Fact Sheet
• Mental health status among health workers in Nepal during COVID-19 pandemic (Policy brief)
• COVID19 & Mental Health: Effects and tips to keep our mind healthy!
• Mental Health and Coronavirus disease (COVID19)
• Policy Brief: COVID-19 and the Need for Action on Mental Health