A recent conference on mental health has revealed alarming figures about the state of psychological well-being in Pakistan.

According to experts, nearly 34% of Pakistan’s population is affected by some form of mental illness, while the country saw around 1,000 suicides last year linked to mental distress.

The findings were shared during the 26th International Conference on Mental Illness held in Karachi, highlighting how economic struggles, social pressures, and recurring disasters have worsened the mental health landscape.

Data presented at the conference indicated that one in every three Pakistanis—and one in five people globally—suffers from a mental health issue. Depression, anxiety, and drug addiction are among the most common disorders.

Women in Pakistan are increasingly vulnerable to depression due to domestic conflicts and the lack of recognition they face in society. Experts noted that women’s limited empowerment and societal pressures have resulted in higher rates of anxiety and emotional stress.

Among youth, drug abuse—particularly the use of ice and other intoxicants—has emerged as a major factor contributing to deteriorating mental health.

Disasters and violence fueling psychological trauma

Frequent natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, coupled with incidents of terrorism, have left deep psychological scars on the population. Thousands of families who lost their homes to these calamities continue to struggle with trauma and uncertainty.

Pakistan’s ongoing economic instability and security challenges have further intensified mental distress among citizens, particularly the young generation, who increasingly feel hopeless about their future.

Despite the growing crisis, the availability of mental health professionals in Pakistan remains critically low. The country currently has only about 90 psychiatrists serving a population of over 240 million.

According to global health standards, there should be one psychiatrist for every 10,000 people. However, in Pakistan, there is only one for every 550,000 patients, creating a severe treatment gap.

Rising drug addiction and suicides

Experts revealed that approximately 10% of Pakistan’s population is addicted to drugs, while mental stress and untreated psychological disorders led to about 1,000 suicides in the past year.

They emphasized that millions of families across the country are suffering indirectly due to the ripple effects of mental illnesses caused by economic challenges, political instability, and displacement from floods and other disasters.

Participants at the conference urged the government to review the current mental health situation and implement effective strategies to address the growing crisis.

They stressed that Pakistan’s youth, in particular, need targeted support programs, counseling facilities, and awareness campaigns to help them navigate the stress and frustration stemming from unemployment and social instability.