Life can feel like a whirlwind sometimes, can’t it? Between work, family, and everything else, it’s easy to forget to take care of you. That’s where International Self-Care Day, celebrated every July 24th, comes in—a global reminder to hit pause and focus on your health and happiness. Started in 2011 by the International Self-Care Foundation (ISF), this special day falls on 7/24 to symbolize self-care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s not just a one-day event—it’s a call to make self-care a lifelong habit.

The World Health Organization (WHO) backs this movement, using the month leading up to July 24th—Self-Care Month—to spread the word about why self-care matters. Whether it’s eating better, moving more, or taking a moment to breathe, self-care is about small, intentional steps that add up to a healthier you.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of this day, why self-care is a game-changer, how WHO is making it accessible, practical ways to get started in 2025, and how this movement is changing lives worldwide. Ready to make self-care your superpower? Let’s get started!

History and Evolution of International Self-Care Day

Picture this: a world where taking care of yourself wasn’t always seen as a priority. That was the reality not too long ago. Back in the 1960s, as noted by the ISF, self-care was sometimes dismissed as unnecessary or even risky—people relied almost entirely on doctors for health advice. But as healthcare costs soared and chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease became more common, the tide began to turn. By 2011, the ISF launched International Self-Care Day to shine a spotlight on self-care as a vital health strategy.

The choice of July 24th is no accident—it’s a clever nod to the idea that self-care should be a 24/7 commitment. What started as a small initiative has grown into a global movement. Communities, healthcare providers, and even governments now join in with events like health fairs, workshops, and social media campaigns. For example, the Global Self-Care Federation’s #SelfCarePromise campaign in 2022 saw thousands of people worldwide pledging to prioritize their health, with a focus on resilience.

In 2019, the WHO took things to the next level by releasing its first Guideline on Self-Care Interventions for Health and Well-Being. This was a big deal—it meant self-care wasn’t just a buzzword but a science-backed approach to health. WHO also declared June 24 to July 24 as Self-Care Month, a time to roll out new tools, resources, and campaigns leading up to International Self-Care Day. Over the years, the focus has shifted to include mental health, digital health tools, and health equity, making self-care relevant to everyone, everywhere.

The Importance of Self-Care for Health and Well-Being

So, what exactly is self-care? According to the WHO, it’s the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness or disability, with or without a health worker’s support. In simpler terms, it’s all the things you do to stay healthy and feel good—like eating a nutritious meal, going for a walk, or even taking a moment to de-stress.

Why does self-care matter so much? Let’s break it down with some compelling reasons, backed by research:

• Preventing Chronic Diseases: Simple self-care habits, like staying active or eating well, can lower your risk of serious conditions. A 2015 study in the American Journal of Public Health found that people with chronic conditions who practiced self-care—such as monitoring their blood sugar or exercising regularly—visited doctors less often and had better health outcomes.
• Boosting Mental Health: Life can be stressful, but self-care can help. Practices like mindfulness, journaling, or even talking to a friend can reduce anxiety and improve your mood. A 2018 study from the Journal of Happiness Studies showed that students who practiced self-care, like meditation or gratitude exercises, reported lower stress and depression levels.
• Easing Healthcare System Burdens: With 3.6 billion people lacking access to essential health services, according to WHO, self-care is a lifeline. By managing minor ailments or monitoring health at home (like checking blood pressure), you can reduce the strain on hospitals and clinics.
• Building Resilience: Self-care isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving. Regular self-care helps you bounce back from challenges, whether it’s a tough day at work or a personal setback. It’s like giving yourself a mental and physical recharge.
• Saving Money: Prevention is cheaper than treatment. By investing in self-care, you’re less likely to face costly medical bills down the road. For example, regular exercise and a balanced diet can reduce the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes, which can be expensive to manage.

In a world where burnout is all too common, self-care is your secret weapon. It’s not selfish—it’s essential for living a longer, happier life and supporting those around you.

WHO’s Role and Self-Care Interventions

The WHO has been a game-changer in making self-care accessible and effective. In 2019, it released its Guideline on Self-Care Interventions for Health and Well-Being, a roadmap for how self-care can improve health worldwide. Updated in 2022, this guideline outlines evidence-based tools and strategies that people can use independently or with minimal help from healthcare providers. These include everything from self-injectable contraceptives to home-based health monitoring devices.

Here’s a closer look at WHO’s key contributions:

• Self-Monitoring Tools: Devices like blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, and even pregnancy test kits empower you to track your health at home. For example, the WHO’s Digital Adaptation Kit for Self-Monitoring of Blood Pressure During Pregnancy helps expectant mothers manage their health, reducing risks like preeclampsia.
• Self-Administered Medications: Programs like self-injection of contraceptives (e.g., Depo-Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) have been a breakthrough, especially in areas with limited healthcare access. Studies show these methods are safe and effective, giving women more control over family planning.
• Digital Health Innovations: WHO supports apps and telemedicine platforms that make self-care easier. These include medication reminders, mental health support tools, and virtual consultations, which are especially helpful in remote or underserved areas.
• Health Literacy Resources: WHO’s Self-Care Competency Framework provides guidelines for healthcare workers and individuals to understand and implement self-care. New Spanish-language resources planned for 2025 will make this even more accessible.

For International Self-Care Day 2025, WHO is expected to release new tools, including updated digital health kits and resources for healthcare workers. These efforts align with WHO’s “triple billion” goals: ensuring one billion more people have access to health coverage, are protected from emergencies, and enjoy better health. By promoting self-care, WHO is bridging gaps in healthcare access and empowering communities to take charge of their health.

Practical Self-Care Strategies for 2025

You don’t need to overhaul your life to practice self-care—small, consistent steps can make a huge difference. The ISF’s seven pillars of self-care—health literacy, mental well-being, physical activity, healthy eating, risk avoidance, good hygiene, and rational use of health products—provide a framework for building healthy habits. Here’s a detailed guide to get you started for International Self-Care Day 2025, with tips that are easy to fit into your busy life:

1. Health Literacy: Knowledge is power. Spend a few minutes learning about your health needs using trusted resources like WHO’s Self-Care Health Interventions. For example, understanding how stress affects your body can motivate you to try relaxation techniques.
2. Mental Well-Being: Stress is a part of life, but you can manage it. Try mindfulness (focusing on the present moment) or journaling to process your thoughts. The National Institute of Mental Health recommends apps like Headspace or simple breathing exercises: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4.
3. Physical Activity: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week—think brisk walking, dancing, or yoga. Even 10-minute bursts count! A CDC study shows that regular movement boosts mood and reduces the risk of heart disease.
4. Healthy Eating: You don’t need a fancy diet—just focus on balance. Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables, and choose whole grains and lean proteins. The USDA’s MyPlate offers simple guides to get started.
5. Sleep Hygiene: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep nightly. Create a calming routine: dim lights, avoid screens an hour before bed, and try reading or gentle stretching. Good sleep improves focus and mood.
6. Risk Avoidance: Small choices, like limiting alcohol or quitting smoking, go a long way. The CDC’s smoking cessation resources offer tips to break harmful habits.
7. Good Hygiene: Simple habits like regular handwashing or brushing your teeth twice daily prevent illness and boost confidence. WHO emphasizes hygiene as a cornerstone of self-care.
8. Rational Use of Health Products: Use medications and health tools wisely. For example, if you have high blood pressure, a home monitor can help you track readings and share them with your doctor.
9. Digital Health Tools: Try apps for meditation, fitness tracking, or medication reminders. WHO-endorsed platforms like telemedicine services can connect you with professionals when needed.
10. Community Connection: Join a local walking group, attend a health workshop, or share your self-care journey online with hashtags like #SelfCarePromise. Connecting with others keeps you motivated.

Here’s a handy table summarizing the seven pillars with actionable tips:

Pillar	What It Means	Try This
Health Literacy	Understanding your health needs	Read WHO’s self-care guides
Mental Well-Being	Managing stress and emotions	Practice 5 minutes of deep breathing daily
Physical Activity	Staying active for body and mind	Take a 20-minute walk 5 days a week
Healthy Eating	Eating balanced, nutritious meals	Add one vegetable to every dinner
Risk Avoidance	Avoiding harmful behaviors	Cut back on sugary drinks
Good Hygiene	Keeping clean and healthy	Wash hands before meals
Rational Use of Products	Using health tools correctly	Follow medication instructions

For 2025, the theme (if announced) might focus on resilience or health equity, building on past campaigns. Whatever the focus, the goal is to make self-care personal and sustainable. Start with one or two habits and build from there—you’ll be amazed at how good you feel!

Global Impact and Community Engagement

International Self-Care Day isn’t just about you—it’s about building a healthier world. By encouraging people to take charge of their health, this movement reduces pressure on healthcare systems and promotes global health equity. The WHO estimates that 274 million people need humanitarian assistance, and self-care practices like handwashing, self-testing, or managing minor ailments at home can make a difference, especially in crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Community engagement is at the heart of the day. Around the world, organizations host events like health fairs, free screenings, and workshops to spread the word. For example, the University of Alabama at Birmingham runs self-care programs for students, teaching stress management and healthy eating. Pharmacies in many countries offer free blood pressure checks or flu shot clinics, making self-care accessible to all.

Social media plays a huge role, too. The Global Self-Care Federation’s #SelfCarePromise campaign encourages people to share their self-care goals online, creating a ripple effect. In 2022, over 1,000 pledges were shared, from committing to daily walks to practicing gratitude. These small actions inspire others and build a global community of health-conscious individuals.

Self-care also has economic benefits. By preventing illness and managing conditions early, individuals save on healthcare costs, and governments can allocate resources more effectively. The WHO’s focus on self-care supports its goal of universal health coverage, ensuring everyone, everywhere, can access the tools they need to stay healthy.

Conclusion

As International Self-Care Day 2025 approaches on July 24th, it’s a perfect time to reflect on how you can care for yourself—body, mind, and soul. Since its launch in 2011, this day has grown into a global movement, backed by the WHO and countless communities, all united by the belief that self-care is a right, not a luxury. From eating a little healthier to taking a moment to breathe, every step you take toward self-care is a step toward a better life.

The beauty of self-care is that it’s personal. Maybe it’s a morning stretch, a heartfelt chat with a friend, or using a health app to stay on track. Whatever you choose, make it a habit—because you deserve to feel your best, 24/7. Join the #SelfCarePromise, share your journey, and inspire others. Together, we can build a healthier, happier world, one small act of self-care at a time.