Mental health services in Pakistan

Abstract

This article discusses the critical issues of mental health in Pakistan, highlighting the significant burden of mental disorders in the country, and limitations of mental health services which are under-addressed. In particular, the authors discuss the under-reporting of the epidemiological rates of mental disorders and the scarcity of mental health professionals and facilities, with only about 500 psychiatrists serving a population of over 244 million. Cultural stigma, economic challenges, and insufficient government funding exacerbate this critical scenario, all limiting access of population to mental health services. Despite some government initiatives and the involvement of Non-governmental Organizations, the mental health infrastructure remains inadequate to meet the demand for care. The authors recommend increasing governmental funding, expanding the mental health literacy in the general population, training healthcare providers, and integrating traditional healers into the formal mental health system to reduce stigma and improve access to care.