Is Mental Health Taken Seriously in Pakistan?
Although our general well-being depends much on mental health, in many nations—including Pakistan—it sometimes receives the necessary attention and raises a question: is mental health taken seriously in Pakistan?
This blog will look at Pakistan’s present level of mental health awareness, the difficulties, and the actions that can help to change things.
Mental Health Issues
Mental health is our emotional, psychological, and social well-being combined. It influences our thinking, feelings, and behavior. Good mental health helps us control stress, interact with others, and make decisions.
Is mental health taken seriously in Pakistan: The Situation
Mental health has not always taken the stage in Pakistan. The World Health Organization (WHO), in a recent study, confirms that one in four persons will have a mental health illness in their lives. But just a tiny fraction of Pakistan’s population gets the aid they require.
Understanding & Stigma
Stigma is one of the main hurdles standing in the way of mental health treatment in Pakistan. Many see mental illness as a failure or cause of shame. This stigma keeps people from getting treatment since they worry that people might not understand and mistreat them. Many times, cultural ideas link mental health problems with uncertain situations, which results in sadness and isolation.
Limited Funding
Another major difficulty is the lack of resources. Pakistan boasts few facilities and mental health experts. Estimates place the number of mental health experts for a population of 220 million at just over 400,000, mainly in rural places where mental health help is not present. This resource scarcity makes it difficult for people to seek help.
Government and Policy: Their Function
Our government has made some progress toward treating mental health problems. Introduced in 2001 with an eye toward including mental health into mainstream medicine.
Recent projects aiming to protect the rights of people with mental health disorders include the Mental Health Act of 2017. Although these efforts are admirable, more has to be done to provide a complete mental health framework covering therapy and prevention.
COVID-19: Their Effects
To understand, is mental health taken seriously in Pakistan? We must know that Pakistan is no exception; the COVID-19 pandemic has increased mental health difficulties worldwide. According to a study, more than 34% of people experienced moderate to severe anxiety.
At the same time, 30% showed the symptoms of sadness. Lockdowns, social isolation, and economic crisis have increased anxiety and sadness among people.
This situation made clear how urgently resources and mental health help are needed. Many companies responded by starting helplines and online rehab courses.
Changing Viewpoints
Though there are hurdles, transformation is possible. Public debates, social awareness programs and social media efforts are beginning to revert the stigma around mental health.
Groups like the National Health Forum work nonstop to increase awareness and promote improved mental health care. Their work is vital in shifting society’s views and motivating people to get treatment without regard for criticism.
Value of Learning
The answer to this question: is mental health taken seriously in Pakistan? is to improve mental health awareness that depends heavily on education. Including mental health education in school curricula helps young people develop an early awareness of mental well-being. Children should be taught how to express their emotions, use coping strategies, and ask for help will be in a more peaceful environment.
Furthermore, instruction for community leaders, medical professionals, and educators can provide them with the ability to spot mental health concerns and offer suitable help. Encouraging mental health awareness will help to lower stigma and advance a society of transparency.
Supporting Mechanisms
Improving mental health treatment in Pakistan depends on robust support networks. Those in need of emotional support depend much on family, friends, and communities. Promoting honest talks about mental health can help to build a society that is more helpful and understanding.
Additionally, support groups are helpful. They give people a safe place to communicate their experiences, grow from one another, and see that they are not alone in their challenges. Local community centers can help make these groups easily available to people who need them.
Looking For Help
Seeking treatment is vital whether you or someone you love are dealing with mental health problems. The following actions should help:
Talk to someone: Sometimes, only expressing your emotions will help. Express what you are feeling and what you’re going through with a family member or close friend. Choose someone sensitive and understanding to make the chat safe and reassuring. Don’t tackle your challenges alone—expressing your feelings can help.
See a mental health Therapist: They can offer correct therapy, direction, and treatment. They can work with you to create a treatment plan, educate coping mechanisms, and assist you in identifying the unknown reasons of your emotions.
Therapy can also offer a private evaluation where you may know your feelings. If you’re not sure where to begin, think about consulting reliable resources or local renowned mental health groups. Remember, asking an expert for help shows strength toward improved mental health.
Use Helplines: Pakistani companies have created helplines to offer quick help. Reach out without delay if you need someone to chat to. These lines are staffed by trained experts who listen and offer help. If you’re stressed, anxious, or depressed, call these helplines. They can be lifesaving when you can’t chat with someone close. Remember, asking for help is brave, and these agencies are here to help.
Take part in activities: that support mental health, such as your favorite hobbies, mindfulness, yoga and exercise. Maintaining your physical condition will allow you to develop your mental state. Hobbies like painting and reading can help you relax and enjoy life.
Getting enough sleep and eating correctly also improve mental health. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Giving your health a priority will help you elevate stress.
In Conclusion
To sum up, is mental health taken seriously in Pakistan the answer is no have to go a long way. Mental health is a basic need of ours that Pakistan has to give more focus. Although awareness has been raised, stigma has still to be lowered. Access to care has to be improved, and even in recent years, it has seen progress. We can ensure that mental health is taken seriously and that everyone has access to the necessary help.
National Health Forum: Advocate of Mental Health Projects
Promoting mental health as a top concern for Pakistan depends heavily on the National Health Forum (NHF). The NHF focuses on increasing awareness and supporting mental health projects. It works throughout the nation by combining legislators, medical experts, and community leaders.
Focusing on lowering the stigma attached to mental health disorders, the forum plans seminars, workshops, and awareness programs to inform the public. The NHF also works with other agencies to influence policy decisions and ensure people’s integration into the larger healthcare system. By means of these steps, the NHF is helping to establish mental health as a top priority in Pakistani public health.