In a move to address the growing mental health challenges in the country, the Sindh government has launched the first-ever Sindh Mental Health Policy. The policy outlines a comprehensive plan to establish a sustainable and effective system to improve mental health services across the province.
The policy was developed in collaboration with multiple local and international stakeholders, including the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL), University of Manchester, Kings College London, Sindh Mental Health Authority, WHO, prison department, Pakistan Psychiatric Society, and Pakistan Psychological Association.
The launch ceremony was held at the Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), where speakers emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues in the country. They highlighted that mental disorders are on the rise, and it is crucial to have a well-documented and overarching mental health policy in place.
The policy document is aligned with the cultural, geographical, religious, and historical context of the province and provides a framework to advance good mental health services for the people of Sindh. It recommends various measures, including the translation and dissemination of the Sindh Mental Health Act in local languages, notification of its rules and procedures, and separate allocation of budget for mental health programs.
The policy also calls for incorporating education and training in mental health in medical education curriculum and making mental health literacy a mandatory part of continuing professional education. Moreover, it suggests training community-based workers, including traditional healers, health workers, general practitioners at primary care, and social workers in mental health.
Caretaker Sindh Health Minister Dr. Saad Khalid Niaz expressed his concerns over the increasing number of psychiatric patients in the country and the limited facilities available to cater to their needs. He stated that the policy brings Sindh to the forefront of mental health advocacy in the country and reflects the dedication to prioritizing mental health in the public discourse.
Dr. Niaz shared that the provincial health department is working to set up a registry to gather data on suicides. He also expressed concern over the growing use of drugs and mentioned that certain chemicals used in different industries were being turned into illicit drugs.
Professor Saeed Quraishy, Vice Chancellor of DUHS, highlighted the need to improve mental health facilities in the province and discussed the steps being taken by the university in this regard. Other speakers at the event included caretaker Education Minister Rana Hussain, PILL Head Professor Imran Bashir Chaudhary, and DUHS Pro VC Professor Nusrat Hussain.
The launch of the Sindh Mental Health Policy marks a significant step forward in addressing mental health challenges in the province. With its comprehensive approach and collaborative effort, the policy holds promise to improve mental health services and make a positive impact on the lives of millions of people in Sindh.
Acknowledgement: Originally published by Dawn on 27-01-2024