When it comes to health concerns, mental health in Pakistan is brushed off quite often. With a population of about 241.5 million, estimates suggest that up to 50 million people suffer from mental disorders.
Despite significant progress in many areas of life, mental health remains one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized aspects of healthcare. This neglect stems from a complex dynamic of social, cultural, and economic factors that make treatment inaccessible to people and in return propagates an environment where speaking about mental struggles is seen as a weakness or failure.
The Extent of Mental Health Challenges in Pakistan
Currently, Pakistan is facing a mental health crisis. The World Health Organization (WHO) data suggests that there are only 0.19 psychiatrists per 100,000 inhabitants in Pakistan, a stark contrast to the number required to address the mental health needs of the population.
These disorders range from anxiety and depression to more severe conditions such as schizophrenia, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. Even though the country is facing alarming stats, there is no proper awareness or education regarding this matter. People still associate mental illnesses with being mad or crazy, making it more difficult to seek help for people suffering.
Understanding the Most Common Issues
Only 10% of people receive any form of treatment due to various elements working together to prevent any success in the division and people suffer in silence. These factors include:
1. Cultural and Social Stigmas
In the Pakistani society, mental illness is often dismissed as a personal weakness or some kind of spiritual failing. Terms like “pagal” (crazy) and “kala jadoo” (black magic) are frequently used to dismiss people struggling with mental health issues. These superstitious beliefs further discourage individuals from seeking professional help.
In rural areas, where access to healthcare facilities is already limited, people turn to faith practices or traditional methods of healing instead of visiting a psychiatrist or therapist. This situation is worsening the scenario where mental illnesses are under-reported, under-diagnosed, and untreated.
Additionally, the role of family honor in the Pakistani culture means that mental health struggles are often hidden. Families worry that if a member is diagnosed with a mental illness, it may negatively affect marriage prospects or the reputation of the family. As a result, people battling mental health conditions are forced to suffer in isolation, without the support they need to recover.
2. Economic Barriers Play a Big Role
The economic barriers to mental health in Pakistan are substantial. For many Pakistanis, if you want to get treated for mental health issues, it is a luxury, not many can afford. The cost of private treatment can be ridiculously high, and the public mental health sector is criminally underfunded.
In addition to financial costs, there is a lack of infrastructure and trained professionals. Mental health facilities are limited, especially outside major urban areas. The shortage of psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers means that even those who wish to seek help may not have access to the care they need.
3. The Responsibility of NGOs and the Media
Even though there is a lack of awareness, many NGOs and media platforms have started educating the masses. Change is slowly but steadily taking place. Media and many NGOs have begun to play an essential role in breaking down barriers and reducing stigma.
Campaigns by local organizations such as Rozan, BasicNeeds Pakistan, and The Pakistan Mental Health Coalition have helped raise awareness about mental health issues, encouraging people to open up about their struggles.
Celebrities and influencers on social media are also beginning to use their platforms to talk about mental health, helping to normalize the conversation. The discussion of topics like depression, anxiety, and suicide has gained some traction in public forums, allowing for more empathy and understanding around mental health issues.
Overcoming the Challenges and Bridging the Gap
While the Pakistani government has made efforts to address mental health through its National Mental Health Program and Mental Health Ordinance 2001, implementation remains a challenge. Funding continues to be inadequate, and mental health services are not integrated into the primary healthcare system.
To improve mental health care in Pakistan, a versatile approach is necessary. Awareness campaigns need to be expanded, especially in rural areas, to educate the public on mental health issues. Schools and universities also need to implement mental health education as part of their curriculum to ensure that young people understand the importance of mental well-being.
Moreover, the government needs to prioritize mental health by increasing funding and resources for public sector mental health services and training more professionals in psychiatry and psychology in order to address this widespread disease.
Mental health in Pakistan is an issue that can no longer be ignored. By increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and improving access to care, Pakistan can take significant steps toward tackling its mental health crisis and ensuring a healthier, more productive future for its people.
This World Mental Health Day, educate yourself on how our mental health is not a luxury by watching our documentary, Decode, A series of films that addresses the mental health crisis in Pakistan.