Global health has come a long way in the past 20 years. Since its 2004 peak, AIDS-related deaths have fallen by 68%, since 1990 the under-5 child mortality rate has fallen by more than half, and much more.
Global crises, unfortunately, are threatening to reverse that progress. We need to effectively fight these crises and invest in global health in order to achieve the fourth UN Sustainable Development Goal: good health and well-being.
Here‘s how you can do your part.
Stay informed, follow guidelines, and sign our petition
Viruses know no borders, and none of us are safe until all of us are safe. That’s what we’re standing up for at ONE — coming together globally to end the pandemic for everyone, everywhere. Easy ways to join us and fight the pandemic include staying informed on the latest news, following local and global guidelines, and signing our petition to demand a quick end to the pandemic.
Get active
Exercise is important to maintaining physical health. A lack of exercise can lead to a higher risk of contracting diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and more. Physical activity can also improve mental health and general well-being. But despite all of those positive effects, “1 in 4 adults do not meet the global recommended levels of physical activity.”
So do something positive for yourself and your health and get moving. Whether it’s jogging, dancing, climbing, or playing a sport, there are many ways to get active.
Donate blood
Donating blood is one of the most direct ways to help others‘ health. Blood donations can help cancer patients, those who have been involved in an accident, and surgical patients. In fact, “blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person — [it‘s] the gift of life,” according to the WHO. Learn more about the importance of blood donations and check with your local Red Cross network to find out where and how you can donate.
Prioritize mental health
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and it’s more important than ever to keep an eye on your own mental health, as well as your friends‘ and family‘s mental health. Loneliness and depression can also impact physical health. Prioritize checking in with yourself, your friends, and your family, and offer a listening ear or help when needed. Find out more about you can make your mental health a priority and discover global resources for anyone who needs them.
Hopefully, these tips inspire you to take action. Every step counts, because we can only achieve each SDG, and end the pandemic, together!
