Islamabad, November 1 (IANS). A large population of Pakistan, which is ready to fight its neighboring countries and has extended its hand to the World Bank, is suffering from mental illness. A recent conference on mental health exposed the mental health of this country.
Statistics show that 34 percent of Pakistan’s population is suffering from some mental illness, while last year there were about 1,000 suicide cases in the country.
These results were shared during the 26th International Conference on Mental Illness in Karachi. It highlighted how economic hardships, social pressures and recurring disasters have worsened mental health conditions.
Based on the data presented at the conference, Professor Muhammad Iqbal Afridi, chairman of the scientific committee of the conference, told Pakistani media house The Express Tribune that it shows that one out of every three Pakistanis is suffering from mental problems. Depression and anxiety have become common now.
At the same time, women in Pakistan are becoming victims of depression due to domestic disputes and lack of recognition in the society. Experts said that women remain nervous due to limited empowerment and social pressure and thus the rate of emotional stress is also continuously increasing.
Among youth, drug addiction has emerged as a major cause of deteriorating mental health. Disasters and violence are increasing psychological trauma.
In experts’ opinion, frequent natural disasters like floods and earthquakes as well as incidents of terrorism have had a negative impact on the population. Thousands of families who lost their homes in these disasters are still grappling with trauma and uncertainty.
Pakistan’s persistent economic instability and security challenges have further increased mental stress among citizens, especially the younger generation, who are feeling increasingly pessimistic about their future.
Despite the growing crisis, there are very few mental health care takers in Pakistan. Currently, there are only 90 psychiatrists in the country for a population of more than 24 crore, whereas according to the Global Health Standard, there should be one for every 10,000 people. Whereas in Pakistan there is only one psychiatrist for 550,000 patients.
Experts also told the conference that about 10 percent of Pakistan’s population is addicted to drugs, while about 1,000 committed suicide last year due to mental stress and untreated psychological disorders.
Everyone agreed that economic challenges, political instability and displacement caused by floods and other natural disasters are increasing the number of mentally ill people.
–IANS
kr/