ISLAMABAD, 10 October, 2026 (Kamran Raja): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving access to mental health services, eliminating social stigma and ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions across the country. In his message on World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10, the prime minister emphasised that mental health was fundamental to overall well-being, stating that there could be no health without mental health. Referring to this year’s theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” he stressed the importance of listening to individuals experiencing mental health conditions and incorporating their perspectives into policies, healthcare services and decisions affecting their lives. He said the meaningful participation of affected individuals, alongside expert guidance, was essential for developing effective strategies and strengthening the country’s mental health system. The prime minister noted that mental health was not limited to the prevention and treatment of illnesses but was also vital for the healthy development of young people, enabling them to nurture their abilities and realise their full potential. He called for mental health conditions to be treated with the same acceptance and seriousness as physical illnesses at individual, family and societal levels. He said a supportive and non-judgmental environment was necessary to encourage people to seek timely treatment without fear of discrimination, embarrassment or social pressure.
Acknowledging the barriers many people face in accessing essential care, the prime minister said the government was working to eliminate negative attitudes towards mental health and improve the availability of quality services. He highlighted that the Ministry of National Health Services was developing Pakistan’s National Mental Health Policy 2026–35 to establish a more accessible, equitable and rights-based framework for mental healthcare. He said effective implementation of the policy, supported by measurable outcomes, remained a government priority. He added that efforts were underway, in collaboration with provincial governments and relevant stakeholders, to strengthen early diagnosis and intervention and integrate mental health services into primary healthcare facilities, educational institutions and community-based platforms. The prime minister stressed that children, young people, women and vulnerable and disadvantaged communities required particular attention, especially those affected by poverty, displacement, emergencies and climate change. He called for collective and sustained efforts by governments, educational institutions, families, civil society, mental health professionals and development partners to ensure effective treatment, care and rehabilitation. On the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged citizens to help build a society where people could speak openly about mental health without fear, stigma or embarrassment, ensuring that everyone had the opportunity and support to lead a healthy, active and fulfilling life.