Khudi – Mental Health Awareness in Pakistan
Khudi – Mental Health Awareness in Pakistan
In recent years, there has been a slow but growing awareness about mental health in Pakistan. However, for millions of people, the situation is still tough — mental health problems are common, but there is not enough understanding, awareness, or access to proper care.
From anxiety and depression to trauma and stress, Pakistan is dealing with a hidden mental health problem that affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. Understanding these issues is the first step towards healing, kindness, and making real change.
Pakistan, a country with over 240 million people, is facing a growing mental health crisis.
Recent studies show that nearly one in three Pakistanis will experience some form of mental health issue in their lifetime. There are fewer than 500 trained psychiatrists in the entire country — for a population of over 240 million.
Suicide rates have gone up, especially among young people and women, but people don’t report it much because of social and legal barriers. Rural areas are even worse, as there is almost no access to counseling or mental health care. Despite these serious numbers, mental health is often not talked about in public policies, education, or media.
One of the biggest problems in dealing with mental health in Pakistan is the stigma around it. Many people still think that mental illness is a sign of weakness, lack of faith, or even supernatural causes. This stigma leads to:
Instead of seeing mental illness as a medical condition, people are often told to “be strong” or “pray more.” While faith can be comforting, mental health issues, like any other illness, also need professional help and emotional support.
Breaking this stigma starts with awareness and education.
When people learn that mental health issues are common and can be treated, they start to see therapy not as shameful, but as a way to heal.
Mental health problems in Pakistan are many and varied, but some are more common and have a big impact on people’s lives:
1. Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health issues in Pakistan.
It is often linked to job loss, family pressure, trauma, or feeling alone. Many people don’t get treatment because they don’t recognize the signs or can’t afford therapy.
2. Anxiety Disorders
Chronic stress, political instability, economic problems, and safety concerns have all contributed to rising levels of anxiety among both young people and adults.
3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Many Pakistanis, especially those affected by natural disasters, violence, or displacement, struggle with trauma that is left unaddressed for a long time.
4. Substance Abuse
Frustration, hopelessness, and a lack of mental health awareness have also led to an increase in drug use, especially among young men.
5. Suicidal Thoughts and Self-Harm
Because mental health care is seen as shameful and suicide is illegal in Pakistan, many people who have suicidal thoughts are afraid to seek help.
These issues are not isolated — they are all connected to the social, economic, and cultural factors that affect people’s emotional well-being.
A big reason mental health problems keep going on in Pakistan is the lack of education about emotional health. Schools rarely teach students how to handle stress, failure, or emotions. Parents often discourage emotional openness, fearing it shows weakness. Media also plays a role by presenting inaccurate images of mental illness, which reinforces negative stereotypes.
Introducing mental health education in schools and universities could teach children emotional intelligence, empathy, and coping skills — helping prevent problems before they start.
Even for those who want help, getting professional support is often difficult.
Despite these challenges, some organizations in Pakistan are making a difference.
Groups like Rozan, Umang Pakistan, BasicNeeds Pakistan, and Khudi are working to raise awareness and provide free or low-cost counseling. Social media has also played a role, as influencers, psychologists, and advocates use platforms like Instagram and YouTube to share stories, tips, and information. Campaigns like #BreakTheStigma and #MentalHealthPakistan have encouraged young people to speak out and ask for support.
This growing movement shows that change is possible when individuals and communities work together to promote understanding.
In Pakistan’s close-knit society, family plays a big role in a person’s well-being. However, the lack of knowledge about mental health often leads to misunderstanding. Families can help by:
When families become safe spaces, healing is possible.
To truly address mental health issues in Pakistan, we must all take action.
Here are some important steps:
Change starts with awareness, but it grows with compassion, policy, and action.
Though the path is long, Pakistan’s youth, educators, and NGOs are helping to light the way forward. With growing awareness, online platforms, and supportive communities, the silence around mental health is finally starting to break.
Every conversation matters. Every story shared brings us one step closer to a mentally healthy Pakistan — where care replaces judgment and understanding replaces stigma.