Mental health crisis deepens amid neuro deficit

Pakistan is grappling with a severe mental health crisis, as nearly 25 million people out of a population of 240 million suffer from various neurological and psychological disorders. Alarmingly, the country has only around 400 neurologists to serve the entire population, creating a critical gap in care. Mental health issues are particularly prevalent among the youth, with 15 per cent of young people affected.

These statistics were shared during a neurological health awareness session organised by the Neurology Awareness and Research Foundation (NARF) in connection with World Brain Day, observed on July 22.

Speaking at the session, NARF President Prof Muhammad Wasay and General Secretary Prof Abdul Malik said mental health disorders are on the rise in Pakistan due to multiple social and environmental factors. They criticised the lack of mental health infrastructure, particularly in district hospitals and primary healthcare centres.

"A healthy brain is a symbol of a prosperous society," said Prof Wasay. "Unfortunately, no meaningful steps have been taken by the government to prioritise brain and mental health."

The experts highlighted that women and children are especially vulnerable to mental health disorders due to nutritional deficiencies, poverty, and social stress. Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) Consultant Neurologist Dr Wajid Javed added that children's mental well-being is also being negatively impacted by excessive screen time on computers and mobile devices.

Globally, 43% of the population suffers from some form of neurological disorder. In Sindh alone, one in every three people is affected by mental illness, including depression. Despite these alarming numbers, the experts noted a near-total absence of diagnostic facilities at the primary care level. Moreover, effective treatment remains inaccessible for many due to the high cost of medication.

They urged the government to ensure that CT scans, MRIs, essential medications, and trained neurologists are available in all district hospitals. The panel also disclosed a worrying rise in stroke cases, which have doubled over the past decade. Around 450,000 people suffer strokes annually, primarily due to uncontrolled blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.