Aga Khan Health Service Launches Integrated Mental Health Program in Gilgit-Baltistan

Gilgit — Aga Khan Health Service, Pakistan (AKHS,P) has launched an Integrated Mental Health Program in Gilgit-Baltistan, aimed at providing accessible, timely, and confidential mental health services to the region’s population. The initiative is expected to benefit over 226,000 people across Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.

The launch ceremony was held at the Aga Khan Hospital Gilgit, with Secretary for Population, Social Welfare, Women Development, Human and Child Rights, and Youth Affairs, Mr. Zafar Waqar Taj, attending as the chief guest. In his address, he emphasized the social stigma surrounding mental health and the limited options available for those seeking help. He praised AKHS,P for taking this critical step and assured full government support in implementing the program, stating that it will offer professional and confidential care to residents of the region.

The program is a collaborative effort between AKHS,P and various agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), including Aga Khan Education Service, Aga Khan University’s Brain and Mind Institute, AKU’s Institute for Educational Development, Department of Psychiatry, Aga Khan Rural Support Program, Digital Human Resource Center, Aga Khan Health Board for Pakistan, and the International Mental Health Task Force of the Department of Jamati Institutions.

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During the event, Secretary Taj highlighted the urgent need for social awareness and institutional cooperation to address rising mental health concerns. He termed the program a model initiative that could serve as an example for other regions and organizations.

Recent studies show that mental health challenges in Pakistan are rising sharply. According to the World Health Organization, mental disorders account for over 4% of the country’s total disease burden, disproportionately affecting women. Around 40% of women in the perinatal and postpartum phases suffer from depression or anxiety. Research further indicates that nearly 40% of those who attempt or die by suicide were suffering from depression. Alarmingly high suicide rates have been reported in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral in recent years, with approximately 24 million Pakistanis in need of psychological support.

Farida Shah, Head of Community Programs and Donor-Funded Projects at AKHS,P, underscored the importance of government collaboration. She expressed confidence in the continuous support from the governments of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and reaffirmed AKHS,P’s commitment to taking further initiatives for mental health in partnership with provincial authorities.