It is sad to mention that Pakistan is among those countries where mental illnesses are quite common but severely neglected. Therefore, it is vital that authorities work towards de-stigmatising the idea of mental illness so that common people are more sensitised towards it. Only then can people start to accept the fact that nothing is more terrifying than constantly battling with your own mind.
Out of all mental illnesses, depression is considered to be the most widespread. According to statistics, more than 264 million people of all ages around the world suffer from depression. The problem is very real and can adversely affect a person’s ability to perform at home or at work. State institutions have failed miserably is trying to curb the ever-increasing rate of depression which more often than not leads to suicide. However, what is more terrifying is that due to a plethora of societal evils such as target killings, street crimes, intolerance, social isolation, rape and murder that exist throughout the country the general mental health of people is deteriorating by the day. Such a situation could give rise to a mental health crisis in the future. Even though there are many effective treatments that can help individuals cope with their psychological disorder, between 76% and 85% of people in low- and middle-income countries receive no treatment due to the lack of awareness.
Citizens need to start educating themselves on mental illness rather than ridiculing others and undermining their issues. On the other hand, authorities need to initiate awareness campaigns that highlight the effects that mental illness can have on an individual. It is important to create a safe space where people can come forward and discuss their plight.
Nida Nawaz
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, August 27th, 2020.
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