Karachi: Mental Health Day is commemorated annually on the 10th of October, and it holds significant relevance for impoverished communities in Pakistan. This significance is underscored by the prevailing circumstances in the country, which are particularly detrimental to the mental well-being of underprivileged Pakistanis.
The mental and psychological challenges faced by Pakistan’s poor are deeply rooted in a complex web of interconnected factors. At the heart of these challenges is the pervasive issue of unemployment, which not only robs individuals of their economic stability but also takes a toll on their mental well-being. The constant struggle to secure a livelihood in the face of limited job opportunities can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.
Injustice compounds the mental burden carried by the impoverished population. Many of them face discrimination and unequal treatment, exacerbating feelings of powerlessness and frustration. The unequal distribution of resources and opportunities further widens the gap between the rich and the poor, adding to the sense of injustice and resentment.
The lack of access to essential services like water, electricity, and gas not only hampers the physical well-being of Pakistan’s poor but also takes a toll on their mental health. These hardships create a backdrop of chronic stress, anxiety, and despair that can contribute to the development of psychological issues in deprived communities. Addressing these fundamental necessities is not only a matter of economic development but also a crucial step towards ensuring the overall well-being of the country’s most vulnerable populations.
Inflation, a relentless force in Pakistan’s economic landscape, affects the poor disproportionately. The rising cost of essential goods and services places immense financial strain on families struggling to make ends meet, leading to heightened anxiety and stress. This economic instability, in turn, disrupts family dynamics and places immense pressure on individuals to provide for their loved ones.
Limited access to mental health services is another significant challenge. Mental health remains a highly stigmatized issue in Pakistan, making it difficult for those in need to seek help. Furthermore, the scarcity of mental health professionals and facilities exacerbates this problem, leaving many without the necessary support to address their mental health concerns.
Environmental stressors, including overcrowded living conditions and inadequate access to clean water and sanitation, also contribute to the mental health challenges faced by Pakistan’s poor. These harsh living conditions can lead to chronic stress and health problems, further deteriorating overall well-being.
When discussing mental health issues in individuals, we frequently overlook various crucial factors. Have we ever considered the potential danger posed by a prisoner who is about to finish their sentence but is grappling with severe mental disorders and exhibits psychopathic traits. . . ?
There is an urgent need to pay attention to the mental health of prisoners. Similarly, addressing these issues for the people who are outside the jails demands a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach. Promoting justice for all can significantly reduce the burden on the mental well-being of the economically disadvantaged. Fundamental rights, basic necessities of life such as water, light, and gas, should be provided without any disturbance. Economic reforms are crucial, but so are efforts to reduce social disparities, ensuring that the benefits of development reach the most vulnerable segments of society. Increasing access to mental health services and destigmatizing mental health in Pakistani culture are equally vital steps. By acknowledging and addressing the mental health needs of Pakistan’s poor, we can work towards a more equitable and mentally healthier future for all, where individuals are empowered to overcome the daunting challenges they face and lead fulfilling lives.
Blog by: KASHIF SHAMIM SIDDIQUI
