15% of Pakistani Teens Face Mental Health Problems

KARACHI: At a press conference held at the Karachi Press Club to mark World Brain Day 2025, leading neurologists and health professionals raised the alarm about the growing mental health crisis among Pakistan’s youth.

Dr. Muhammad Wasay, a prominent neurologist and President of the Neurology Awareness and Research Foundation (NARF), revealed that approximately 15% of young people in Pakistan are currently living with mental health disorders.

This year’s World Brain Day theme, “Brain Health and Wellbeing: A Priority for All,” highlights the importance of mental wellness as the cornerstone of a fulfilling and dignified life. Experts at the event stressed that mental health is not simply the absence of illness, but a vital component of overall well-being.

Global figures show that 43% of people worldwide are affected by some form of neurological or mental disorder.

Dr. Wasay pointed out that Pakistan faces a severe shortage of specialists, with only 400 neurologists serving the entire country. He also noted the lack of neurological and psychiatric care infrastructure in district hospitals and basic health units.

“Mental health is a basic human right and should be prioritized throughout life,” Dr. Wasay emphasized. “Unfortunately, stigma and misconceptions prevent many from seeking timely help.”

Professor Dr. Abdul Malik, NARF’s General Secretary, echoed these concerns, noting that the rising number of stroke cases in Pakistan has doubled over the past decade.

He urged families to take a proactive approach to brain health, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet, managing blood pressure and diabetes, and adopting a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of neurological diseases.

Dr. Malik also highlighted that in developing countries like Pakistan, factors such as inadequate maternal and child healthcare, environmental pollution, and low immunization rates contribute to neurological problems in children. He called for greater access to rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and special education services.

Dr. Wajid Jawaid, another leading neurologist, called for a united effort from the government, healthcare professionals, media, and the public to promote mental health. He stressed that encouraging positive thinking, regular physical activity, and strong social connections can help prevent conditions like depression and anxiety.

He also pointed out that women and children are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, with factors like poor nutrition during pregnancy, poverty, and social pressures negatively impacting their neurological development.

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During the event, experts urged the government to take concrete steps, including early diagnosis of neurological disorders, dispelling harmful superstitions, making information accessible to all, and ensuring affordable, quality treatment and rehabilitation. They also called for a national focus on neurological healthcare and research.

On World Brain Day 2025, NARF encouraged everyone to commit to protecting their brain health through balanced nutrition, timely medical care, healthy habits, and a positive mindset, reminding all that a healthy brain is the foundation of a healthy society.