There is a severe shortage of mental health specialists in Pakistan, even as 15% of the country’s youth suffer from mental illnesses. Out of a population of 240 million, an estimated 25 million people are affected by various neurological and psychological disorders. According to neurologists Professor Mohammad Wasay and Professor Abdul Malik of the Neurology Awareness and Research Foundation, the number of patients is overwhelmingly high compared to the limited availability of mental health professionals.
Speaking to Vitals News on the occasion of World Brain Day, the experts revealed that only 400 neurologists are available across the entire country. In addition to neurologists, there is a general shortage of doctors overall. They stressed that air pollution in urban areas doesn’t just affect the lungs — it also has adverse effects on brain health.
Professor Wasay and Professor Malik pointed out that mental illnesses are increasing due to multiple factors, yet there is no mental health infrastructure in district hospitals or basic health units across Pakistan. “A healthy brain is a sign of prosperity,” they said, “but unfortunately, the government has taken no meaningful steps to promote mental well-being.”
They further warned that women and children in Pakistan are particularly vulnerable to mental health risks. Nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy, poverty, and social or domestic stressors negatively affect the mental development of newborns. Dr. Wajid Javed from Dow University added that excessive use of mobile phones and computers is also impacting children’s mental health.
These experts highlighted that 43% of the global population is affected by some form of neurological illness. In households where even one member suffers from a brain disorder, the entire family faces serious challenges. In Sindh alone, every third person is afflicted by some type of mental illness, including depression.
They also emphasized that there is no system in place for early diagnosis or primary-level treatment of mental disorders in Pakistan. Due to the high cost of medication, many patients are unable to afford treatment.
Age-related neurological diseases are also on the rise. Stroke cases in Pakistan have doubled over the last decade, with 450,000 people experiencing strokes annually, often leading to long-term disability. High blood pressure is a major cause of strokes, while elevated cholesterol and diabetes also contribute to the increasing prevalence of brain disorders.
The neurologists called for urgent government action to establish diagnostic and treatment facilities at the primary healthcare level. This includes providing CT scans, MRIs, essential medications, and appointing mental health specialists in district hospitals across the country.