Mental Health: An ignored Subject

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Pakistan has always remained in the highlight for its issues such as economic crisis, poverty and dengue/polio eradication and there have been various discussions on how to combat these.

However, one of the repercussions of these matters: Mental Health Illness finds rare mention in discussion and news.

One of the elements which make it different from other issues is its invisibility.

In most cases, the struggle of mental illness is concealed by the patient and signs of such diseases are brushed away as routine life stress. Unlike other diseases, it is very hard to figure out if a person is struggling through mental health due to its symptoms that appear vague and un-clear.

According to a survey conducted by World Health Organization (WHO), one of out every four people world-wide is diagnosed with some sort of mental health issues.

As per the same source, 34 people commit suicide every day in Pakistan. With such alarming figures, it is upsetting that the government has failed to take up reasonable measures to counter this growing and pressing issue.

Help at the end of private sector has also been limited. Few psychologists are providing assistance in mainly urban areas but due to high consultation costs and other factors associated with psychological issues majority of people prefer not to seek help.

Also Read: Life Tips by Mehreen: How to Combat Depression?

In these dynamics, UMANG Pakistan has emerged as Pakistan’s very own 24/7 operational and totally free of cost mental health helpline. ‘The main motive behind this helpline is to spread awareness and break the hard to shake taboo associated with mental illnesses’ says Dr Kinza, CEO and Founder UMANG.

The organization has assisted over 1500-1600 clients in the span of 9 months when it was launched and was also able to carry out Pakistan’s first ever suicide prevention and awareness march in solidarity with those people who laid down their lives.

Another organization called Taskeen has been aiming to change people’s attitudes, perception and behaviors towards mental health and well-being in Pakistan over the past 18 years.

However, the government’s patronage is a must to combat this growing concern. The government needs to ensure proper facilities which include therapy centers in every city with trained and specialized psychologists that provide consultancy and follow up sessions for severe cases at affordable rates.

Read More: Life Tips by Mehreen: How to Keep Yourself Happy?

This can be implemented via NGO’s or government projects. In addition, a census must be done in accordance to all existing mental health diseases to check which age brackets most commonly fall prey to this issue.

The efforts of some segments of youth must be appreciated. They are more aware and exposed to this cause and certainly feel strongly about it. In addition to say, they are taking appropriate measures to de-stigmatize and spread awareness about this bone of contention through ted talks, videos, blogs etc.

As a result of the serious ramifications associated with mental health illness such as suicide if left untreated, it is imperative to start a national debate about what well-being really is, and the consequences of not dealing effectively, with the life stressors Pakistanis experience on a daily basis.

It is high time when issues like these are given proper attention and more is done to suffice the loss they have caused.

By: Omar A. Ranjha

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