BY : Mustafa Moiz.
Karachi : With 240 million people, the awareness of mental health in Pakistan is becoming critically important with both sociological and stigma-related pressures at an all-time high. More importantly, there are millions of suffering people who do not resort to treatment for a variety of reasons. According to recent studies, almost one-fourth of Pakistanis might be suffering from mental health issues. They can be anxiety and depression problems, but the other issues can be much worse. The pandemic of COVID-19 has made things even worse and has caused heightened anxiety, stress, and isolation.
This has led to a current wave of efforts to be able to discuss mental issues and provide open forums to discuss the issue. Both nongovernmental bodies, mental health professionals and advocates work in tandem as they educate the general populace, reduce stigma associated with mental health, and encourage folks to seek medical help. There are workshops, social media crusades, and community-based outreach programs aimed at cultivating an environment where mental health is seen as a central element of overall well-being Furthermore, the government has realized that mental health matters and created policies whose emphasis is on the upgrading of mental health services, with integration into primary care. There are still some shortages of professional mental health personnel and mental health facilities that are not up to scale, especially in rural setups.
In this regard, there is a need for the collaboration of the government, health care providers, and the communities to address these problems. A culture of understanding and acceptance will take Pakistan towards better mental health results, which will lead toward a healthier society. This is not just a necessity but a critical step toward breaking the silence over mental health in Pakistan. I kindly request the opportunity to have this article featured on your esteemed platform. I am confident that it will contribute to raising awareness and prompting necessary discussions around this crucial issue.
