This means taking on board the government as well as mental health providers
KARACHI: I was really impressed by the content of an Indian advertisement on television, which intellectually addressed children who were in the throes of child abuse. It effectively sought to embolden the victims and give them confidence in reporting the cases they face via a newly launched website. Child abuse is alarming in Pakistan as well, but there is a dearth of laws against to punish the perpetrators. There is also a lack of post-traumatic care, such as counselling, once a child has experienced the abuse. Consequently, victims who have gone through the appalling experience often present with shame, guilt, and resentment towards people. This greatly impacts their adult lives and particularly their relationships, whether it is a spouse or stranger. Like this Indian advertisement campaign, Pakistan also needs to introduce such measures and other means to help victims cope with the issue. This means taking on board the government as well as mental health providers.
Shireen Hashim
Published in The Express Tribune, January 2nd, 2017.
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