THE SILENT SUICIDE PROBLEM IN PAKISTAN
In Pakistan, discussions on mental health have never been at the center of society. Despite Pakistan’s unsettling rise in suicide rates. A survey states that 34% of Pakistanis experience anxiety or depression, two frequent mental health conditions. Talking about mental health has never even been deemed important enough in Pakistan. This makes sense for a developing nation dealing with many political upheavals and an economic crisis.
However, the middle class also accounts for 78% of the annual suicide rate in Pakistan. These individuals are those who ‘cannot afford’ to have these discussions. However, the general perception of mental health as an illusory term that may or may not apply to all people is not only attributable to a lack of resources. It’s also a result of the persistently high societal stigma associated with mental health. The stigma attached to someone who attempts to get treatment is even more pervasive.
In Pakistan, the idea of therapy is uncommon. The World Health Organization reports that there are incredibly few psychiatrists employed in Pakistan, almost eliminating the possibility of therapy. The few people who do seek therapy are occasionally deterred by the exorbitant costs and unprofessional behavior of the therapists.
A person who asks for assistance is frequently called “crazy.” It’s commonly believed that only those who are considered “crazy” ought to see a therapist or psychiatrist. People who are depressed are occasionally made fun of for not being appreciative enough. They experience a total lack of support from everyone around them and are informed that their ailments may be easily cured with “dam-darood.”
All things considered, a mentally ill person in Pakistan who decides to seek professional assistance is generally doing something heroic and uncommon, but they won’t be able to fully recover if the culture’s perception of mental health and counseling doesn’t shift.
I am a dedicated student currently in my seventh semester, pursuing a degree in International Relations. Alongside my academic pursuits, I am actively engaged in the professional field as a content writer at the Rangeinn website.
