On Tuesday, the Ministry of National Health Services revealed a startling report indicating that 80 million Pakistanis are suffering from various mental health disorders.
The report, submitted to parliament, cites inflation, unemployment, and economic pressures as some of the key contributors to the growing mental health crisis. Both men and women are affected, though men appear to be more impacted. Mental health challenges are prevalent among employees, businesspeople, and the unemployed alike.
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Rizwan Taj, the health ministry’s focal person, commented, “Everyone is facing economic hardships, which have disrupted the entire family structure. These challenges are major factors leading to anxiety and depression.”
Medical experts also pointed out that the ongoing violence in Palestine is contributing to mental health issues in Pakistan. Additionally, they highlighted that economic disparities and a weak belief system are particularly affecting women’s mental well-being in the country.
Youth in Pakistan are experiencing high levels of depression, largely due to unemployment and a lack of job opportunities.
