What is mental health? This is a question of concern that must be addressed to erase confusion. Mental health refers to a person’s psychological and emotional well-being. Sound mental health is vital to living a life full of happiness and prosperity. But with the current circumstances of our country and the whole world in general, maintaining good mental health is challenging.
Mental health has been a taboo in Pakistan for a long time. To talk about physical health is another thing, but mental health is a big no. People are discouraged from seeking mental health care. This is because of the stigma surrounding mental disorders. Besides, discrimination against patients and families is also a huge problem. Following are some facts about the mental health issues in Pakistan:
Mental Health Issues In Pakistan
In Pakistan, approximately 13,000 people committed suicide in 2012 due to mental illness. This figure could be an underestimation. Yet, families cover up many suicides by reporting them as accidental deaths. They are afraid of police harassment and want to avoid legal procedures or social stigma after losing a loved one.
The government must educate the public that mental disorders are like physical disorders. Psychological disorders come in a variety of shades and hues, with a wide range of symptoms. Some of the well-known issues are:
- Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety;
- Personality disorders such as bipolar personality disorder;
- Psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia;
- Sexual disorders such as sexual dysfunction;
- Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia.
Factors Leading To Mental Health Issues In Pakistan
Many factors lead to mental illnesses or, in worst cases, suicide. They may be:
-Poverty
-Sexual abuse
-Forced marriages
-Relationship breakups
-Emotional abuse
-Body shaming
-Parental abuse
-Physical assault
Poverty And Suicide
While poverty is a significant cause of suicide, it is frequently associated with factors that are not related to economic circumstances. According to an online survey conducted in Pakistan, more than half of respondents considered a mental illness and financial difficulties to be the primary reasons for suicide.
Sexual Abuse And Forced Marriages
The leading cause of depression in females is sexual abuse and forced marriages. Marrying underage girls to older men without their consent pays a considerable toll on their minds. Marital rape leaves them stunned and repulsed. Their immature bodies have to bear the childbearing burden that leaves them worn out. The prevalence of forced marriages in Pakistan stands at 46%.
Emotional And Physical Abuse
According to reports, 46% of children are subject to emotional abuse. It may be at the hands of parents, society or madrassas. The findings revealed that 84% of Pakistani children are subject to psychological violence by their parents. 74% of children have been physically tortured. Furthermore, this study discovered that children who go to school experienced less violence than those who don’t.
Mental Health Issues And Covid-19 In Pakistan
The ongoing pandemic has paid a massive toll on our mental health as a whole. It has shaken the world health authorities, thereby initiating a global crisis. Presently, the world is going through a life-altering challenge due to the pandemic. Countries have created travel bans and lockdowns to ensure the safety of their citizens and control the spread of the virus. The new normal being “socially distanced” and “sheltered at home” has made people lonely and isolated.
The Covid-19 pandemic has already caused despair and anxiety, and starvation and poverty have led to many suicides. Home violence is also on the rise. Mental health concerns are exacerbated not only among the impoverished but even among the middle class due to sickness fear and company failure. Every day, the situation worsens. Even now, the government provides no mental health help and has no future plans.
Human beings are social animals. We can not stay alone for a long period. Staying isolated has caused an increase in the prevalence of mental health issues. People have become depressed, anxious and frustrated. The rate of depression has spiked, and people find it hard to come back to normality. Thanks to the Covid-19 vaccine, things are coming back to usual. Yet, it is not the flick of a magic wand that will cure mental issues.
Traditional Facts In Pakistan
In Pakistan, traditional spiritual healers make the decisions when medical assistance is not available. Spiritual healers, also known as baba, pir, or Sufi, are well-respected members of the community. They practice at their homes, shrines, or mosques.
They explain mental illness in terms of evil spirit possession or black magic cast by enemies. Amulets, spiritually treated water, incense burning, and mantra recitation are all part of the treatment.
Spiritual healers enjoy the respect of a large number of people who come to them for help with their mental health issues. These treatments may provide temporary satisfaction, but mental problems need professional guidance.
Psychological disorders are as natural as physical disorders. Depression is as fatal as cancer. They are not to be taken lightly. It is vital to keep a close eye on yourself as well as your loved ones. Look out for the signs of any mental issues. If you need clinical assistance and professional help, consult the best psychologists in Lahore via Marham.pk.
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