Pakistan Health Parliament Addresses Contemporary Mental Health Issues and the Way Forward by conducting a symposium “Empowering Minds – Shaping mental Health”
Islamabad : – Pakistan health parliament seminar’s objective for the development of comprehension in terms of mental health legislation, standardize quality standards, build capacity, and establish a network.
Prof. Dr. Aftab Alam Khan, The Chairperson of Mental Health Council at Pakistan Health Parliament shone a spotlight on the major mental health challenges and their profound impact on Pakistani society. According to latest research, 25% of Pakistanis have mental health illnesses. We can earn Rs.5 in spending Rs.1 on mental health i.e. we can increase our economic activity 5 times in terms of revenue. Pakistan Health Parliament seminar took place in a local hotel of Islamabad. Seminar was hosted by the core members of the coalition.
The Pakistan Health Parliament successfully organized a symposium dedicated to exploring contemporary mental health challenges in Pakistan and outlining a strategic path forward to address these pressing issues. This insightful event featured renowned speakers, experts, and a diverse audience, all committed to fostering a healthier, more mentally resilient Pakistan.
Sikandar Zaman, the founder Chairman of the Pakistan Health Parliament, warmly welcomed attendees and set the stage for the symposium. He shared his vision for the Pakistan Health Parliament as an institution dedicated to bridging communities, patients, healthcare providers, policymakers and researchers. The organization’s mission is to shape policies that ensure equitable access and quality health outcomes through dialogue and innovation.
Dr. Sabahat Hameed, address women and youth mental health issues. Distinguished guest speakers from various renowned institutions enriched the symposium with their expertise, including the Brig (R). Rashid Qayyum SI (M) – Head of Psychiatry at PAF Hospital and Fazaia Medical College, Prof. Dr. Salma Siddiqui – Head of Behavioral Sciences at the National University of Science and Technology, Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan – Vice Chancellor of Health Services Academy and Dr. Nadeem ul Haque – Vice Chancellor of Pakistan Institute of Development Economics.
The symposium’s discussions revolved around several key areas of focus on Major Mental Health Challenges in Pakistan, Unpacking the complexities of mental health issues in the country. Perinatal Mental Health, Addressing mental health concerns during and after pregnancy. Youth Mental Health, Recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by the youth. Economic-Induced Mental Health, Exploring the mental health implications of economic factors. Mental Health in the Context of Public Health, Examining the public health perspective of mental well-being.
In an effort to better understand the impact of economic conditions on mental health, the Pakistan Health Parliament conducted a dipstick study. The results were staggering: 91% of Pakistanis reported experiencing anxiety, and 89% expressed feelings of depression and hopelessness due to the prevailing economic conditions.
Speakers highlighted the relevance and importance of psychoanalysis in this modern era of medical science, psychological defense mechanisms, myths and misconceptions. Seminar explored these areas in detail and discussed potential solutions to improve equity in mental health. A number of postgraduate trainees and house officers were also participated in huge number and also joined the seminar.