KARACHI:
Mental health is an important part of human development. The number of people who suffer from mental illness is growing in Pakistan; but the worst tragedy is that the professionals to treat mental health in Pakistan are scarce. Those who are available lack updated knowledge and expertise.
Not only is mental health ignored in our society, but also is it that the society is cruel to people who show symptoms of mental illness. They are not given social and healthcare support they need and instead, labelled as maniacs. They are abandoned by our society, which forces them to resort to other means of survival, such as drug addiction and social isolation, or simply commit suicide.
We need more people who are educated on mental health and can deal with those struggling with mental health issues. Some basic steps could include campaigning, social media talks, organising institutional workshops, seminars and conferences, etc. Mental health is curable, but requires the right people and targets to achieve the outcome.
Danial Tanvir
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, April 17th, 2024.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
