World Mental Health Day observed

Experts reiterated importance of promoting mental wellbeing

LAHORE:

Experts stressed the need for treating mentally-ill citizens and advocating the importance of mental health for all. They expressed these remarks while addressing the media in connection with World Mental Health Day, which was observed across the globe on Tuesday.

This year, the theme was “Mental health is a universal human right”. The experts maintained that mental health is just as important as physical health and requires people to be aware of the symptoms, signs and methods of care.

Director of Medical Services at Fountain House Brig. (retd) Dr Sultan M. Abid underscored the significance of this year’s theme as a compelling call to action.

He reiterated that there are viable alternatives to improve mental health by taking action.

‘We can foster hope and bolster prevention efforts for our mental health,’ he said, adding that seeking professional help to address deteriorating mental health is paramount.

To a query, Dr Abid said that mental well-being at a community level requires support and access to the best standards of care, advocating for mental health issues, conducting research-based treatment in the country, creating awareness, promoting education about mental health and creating leaders in mental health.

Former Mayo Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Iftikhar stressed the need to raise awareness among the public about effective ways to address social and psychological issues.

Individuals facing a multitude of socioeconomic factors may experience both support and obstacles to their recovery. These complexities add intricacy to the evaluation of the effectiveness of mental health services, treatments and support systems.

Warning signs of deteriorating mental health include changes in sleep patterns, irregular appetite, changes in mood, depressive feelings and losing interest in activities that normally bring pleasure, he added.

He further said that the main symptoms include a drop in motivation or being unable to function and perform daily tasks and feeling disconnected from the surroundings. Feelings of apathy or nervousness are also symptoms.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, October 11^th, 2023.