Ali Xeeshan slammed for insensitive remarks about mental health

The designer posted a picture asking people to save the fee


Haddiqua Siddiqui June 19, 2019
Ali Xeeshan: PEPSI GENERATIONS, Pepsi partners with top fashion brands to launch a new clothing line at an event in Lahore.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression will become a prevalent disease in the world by 2030, leaving blood pressure, cardiac diseases and cancer behind.

Mental health awareness remains a point of concern in Pakistan where the threshold of seeking help for it has become higher as many people still suffer alone due to the stigma attached to the illness.

Pakistan’s rate of depression is four times higher than the rest of the world, according to the Pakistan Association for Mental Health (PAMH).

More than the illness itself, what needs to be highlighted is how far we are in the areas of education, service and research related to mental health. Unfortunately, the act of acknowledging the problem and seeking help are often perceived as a sign of weakness and vulnerability. Thus, due to the fear of exposure and loss of social standing, many people avoid consulting a professional.

Renowned designer, Ali Xeeshan, posted a picture of himself on Instagram with a captain that said, "Be your own shrink and save the fee".

via Ali Xeeshan/Instagram via Ali Xeeshan/Instagram

In a society where people suffering from mental health issues already  feel unsure and wonder whether they should try to handle things on their own or seek help, the post is problematic as it promotes the idea of dealing with an illness all by yourself without seeking medical help.

Xeeshan deleted his post after he started facing backlash on the same.

Accepting that someone is struggling with a mental disorder can be quite intimidating in itself. Going to a doctor for it can feel even more daunting — but it should not be this way. Medical help in dealing with the condition is essential for someone's well-being.

Comedian-turned-rapper, Ali Gul Pir commented on the matter, saying that maybe, people should save money from buying his designer clothes instead.



People on Twitter are also calling the designer out for his insensitive remarks.



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