KARACHI:
According to the Pakistan Medical Association, 34% of people in Pakistan suffer from mental illnesses. There are only 500 psychiatrists for 220 million people due to which mental illnesses are either not treated in time or not treated at all. Statistics have revealed that 90% of mental illness cases are not treated at all. These illnesses include depression, schizophrenia, multiple personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. According to a survey, 36% of people in Pakistan suffer from anxiety and depression.
The main reason for this is not being able to tell family or friends about their condition because of the shame and judgment. In addition, they worry about being isolated from society if they disclose their inner state. Unstable economic conditions, unemployment and poverty further add to the suppression. Globally, men are stereotyped as tough and resilient, which is why men are often reluctant to reveal or confront mental health issues. The stigma against mental health in our society further adds to the predicament and puts men suffering from mental illnesses at a greater risk. Instead of seeking help, most men resort to extreme measures such as substance abuse, which further harms them.
A study conducted in Pakistan revealed that suicide is more common among men than women. According to WHO, 13,000 to 14,000 people commit suicide in Pakistan every year, while the number of unsuccessful suicide attempts is in the millions. From 2002 to 2019, the suicide rate among men was 13%. Among women, the rate fell to 4.3% from 4.9%. Men should be encouraged to share their mental illnesses and offered therapy and rehabilitation. As a society, we need to break down stereotypical barriers and offer help to those who are vulnerable.
Babar Ali
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, November 25th, 2021.
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