Nearly one in three adults in Pakistan is currently living with a mental or behavioral health condition. This finding comes from the country’s first nationally representative mental health survey.
The research was published in the British Medical Journal. It surveyed nearly 18,000 adults across all four provinces between 2018 and 2022.
The findings highlight the scale of mental health challenges in Pakistan. Researchers believe the results can help authorities improve healthcare services and identify vulnerable groups.
Mental Disorder Rates in Pakistan
The survey found that 32% of adults currently have a mental or behavioral disorder. Meanwhile, 38% reported experiencing such a condition at some point in their lives.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was also common among respondents. Around one in five adults was found to have PTSD.
More than 10% of participants were living with depression. The survey also revealed that 6% had experienced suicidal thoughts during the previous month.
Researchers found that mental health conditions affected several aspects of daily life. These included family relationships, social interactions, and the ability to work.
Groups Facing Higher Mental Health Risks
The findings showed that certain groups experienced mental health conditions more frequently. These included older adults and people who were unemployed.
Individuals with lower incomes and education levels also faced higher risks. Widowed, divorced, and separated people were another vulnerable group identified in the research.
The findings provide important information about the communities that may need additional support. Researchers believe this evidence can help policymakers develop more targeted mental health services.
Researchers Highlight Importance of National Data
Professor Raza-ur-Rahman of Hamdard University, Karachi, led the five-year research project. International researchers and psychiatric institutions across Pakistan also contributed to the study.
Professor Raza-ur-Rahman said the findings provide reliable national data on mental health conditions. He explained that the results could help authorities identify vulnerable populations and allocate healthcare resources more effectively.
The research may also help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Greater awareness could encourage more people to seek professional diagnosis and treatment.
Professor Anjum Memon of Brighton and Sussex Medical School in the United Kingdom also co-authored the study. He noted that Pakistan previously relied on smaller local studies and international estimates.
He described the national survey as an important milestone. It provides a clearer understanding of the country’s mental health situation.
Pakistan Faces Shortage of Mental Health Services
Pakistan Psychiatric Society President Professor Wajid Akhundzada highlighted the shortage of trained mental health professionals. He also pointed to limited access to specialist services across the country.
These challenges can make it difficult for people to receive timely diagnosis and treatment. The findings underline the need to strengthen mental healthcare at different levels.
Recommendations to Improve Mental Healthcare
Researchers recommended integrating mental health services into primary healthcare facilities. They also called for expanded community-based support and better training for frontline healthcare workers.
Reducing stigma was another important recommendation. Public awareness campaigns could help people understand mental health conditions and seek appropriate assistance.
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The survey provides evidence that mental health requires greater attention in Pakistan. Researchers hope the findings will support better planning, improved access to treatment, and stronger community support systems.
