Pakistan’s mental health crisis deepens as KP reports 34% prevalence, young women face growing isolation

Pakistan is facing a growing mental health challenge, with estimates suggesting that one in four people experiences mental health

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is facing a growing mental health challenge, with estimates suggesting that one in four people experiences mental health difficulties. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) reportedly faces an even greater burden, with prevalence reaching 34%, as experts raise concerns about prolonged insecurity, economic hardship and the social isolation of young women.

Pakistan is observing World Mental Health Day alongside the international community, with this year’s theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” highlighting the importance of listening to people experiencing mental health challenges and improving access to appropriate care.

According to estimates compiled for Minute Mirror, approximately 32.4 million people in Pakistan are living with mental health conditions. Experts also point to a substantial treatment gap, limited psychiatric services and insufficient public funding. The figures require careful interpretation because estimates vary according to the definition of mental illness and the population studied.

KP Faces Multiple Pressures

Experts attribute the reported high prevalence in KP to several overlapping challenges, including years of militancy and terrorism, displacement linked to security operations, devastating floods, unemployment and persistent financial uncertainty.

Climate-related disasters and insecurity have disrupted livelihoods and community networks, while limited mental health facilities in some districts make timely diagnosis and treatment difficult. Young people facing these pressures may experience depression, anxiety and other psychological difficulties.

Pakistan also has a shortage of qualified mental health professionals, while mental health receives a small share of overall healthcare spending. These limitations can leave vulnerable communities without affordable and accessible support.

Young Women at Risk of Isolation

Particular concern has emerged over reports that more young women in parts of KP have faced restrictions on leaving their homes during the past three to four years. Reports from Peshawar, Swat, Mardan, Lower Dir, Bannu and merged districts point to security concerns, inadequate public transport, financial pressures, fear of harassment and restrictive family expectations as possible contributing factors.

Young women aged 15 to 30 who previously attended educational institutions or sought employment may find their opportunities for education, recreation and social interaction severely limited.

Dr Muhammad Hamza Ateeq, Senior Instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Aga Khan University Hospital, highlighted the psychological consequences of isolation, including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances and hopelessness.

Mah Noor Channa of the Department of Psychiatry at Jinnah Hospital also drew attention to the burden of unpaid domestic responsibilities. Extended hours spent cooking, cleaning and caring for family members, without adequate rest or recognition, can contribute to emotional exhaustion, particularly when combined with limited social support.

Experts warn that distress may be dismissed as weakness or attributed solely to spiritual causes, discouraging some women from seeking professional assistance. A shortage of female mental health professionals in rural communities can create additional barriers.

Other Vulnerable Communities

Journalists and media workers also face psychological pressure from covering terrorism, violence, disasters and political instability. Long working hours, job insecurity and online harassment can contribute to burnout and anxiety.

Meanwhile, young people face academic expectations, unemployment, financial uncertainty and pressures associated with social media.

Government Response and Recommendation

In their World Mental Health Day messages, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari emphasised the importance of mental well-being, reducing stigma and improving access to treatment.

Proposed policy measures include expanding community-based psychological support, integrating mental healthcare into primary health services and training frontline health workers to identify people requiring assistance.

Experts recommend door-to-door screening by trained female health workers, women-only support groups, safe community spaces, confidential helplines and stronger mental health services in schools and media organisations.

They stress that psychological distress should never be treated as a personal failure. Listening without judgment, encouraging professional help and ensuring accessible treatment can help individuals seek support before their difficulties become more severe.