Pakistan’s mental health crisis affects over 32 million people

ISLAMABAD: The number of people suffering from mental health conditions in Pakistan has exceeded 32 million, according to figures presented by the Ministry of National Health Services in the National Assembly.

Data from the Global Burden of Disease Study, submitted by the ministry, shows that more than 32.04 million people in the country are affected by mental health disorders, highlighting the growing need for mental health services and qualified professionals.

According to the ministry, Islamabad had around 300,000 people suffering from mental health conditions as of 2023.

The ministry also revealed that Pakistan had only 1,050 registered psychiatrists, indicating a significant shortage of specialists compared with the number of people requiring mental health care.

Punjab has 406 registered psychiatrists, while Sindh has 228. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has 122, and Balochistan has 44.

The figures show that Pakistan has approximately one psychiatrist for every 245,400 people, underscoring the challenges faced by patients seeking professional diagnosis and treatment.

The shortage of specialists raises concerns about access to mental health services, particularly for people living in areas with limited healthcare facilities. The figures also highlight the need to strengthen mental health infrastructure and increase the availability of trained professionals across the country.

Separately, the Ministry of National Health Services provided provincial figures for people living with AIDS in Pakistan.

According to the ministry, the country has 3,900 registered AIDS patients, with Sindh reporting the highest number.

Sindh has 1,915 patients, while Punjab has 1,765. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has 139 patients, and Balochistan has 46.

The figures further show that Islamabad has 30 AIDS patients, while Azad Jammu and Kashmir has four. Gilgit-Baltistan has reported one patient.

The data presented in the National Assembly provides an overview of the reported burden of mental health conditions and AIDS across Pakistan, highlighting ongoing challenges in healthcare provision and access to specialised medical services.