ISLAMABAD, 10 October, 2026 (Kamran Raja): World Mental Health Day is being observed in Pakistan and around the world to raise awareness about mental health, combat stigma and discrimination, and improve access to treatment and support for people experiencing mental health conditions. According to the United Nations, approximately 32.4 million people in Pakistan require mental health care. However, only five per cent of the population has access to mental health services, leaving nearly 95 per cent without adequate care. The report highlights a significant shortage of mental health professionals in the country, with Pakistan having approximately 0.19 psychiatrists per 100,000 people, compared with an average of seven per 100,000 in high-income countries. The limited availability of specialists and inadequate access to treatment facilities remain major challenges for mental healthcare across the country. On October 1, the government launched the National Mental Health Policy 2026–2035 in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other partners. The policy aims to strengthen mental healthcare services and expand access to treatment and support for people in need. This year’s World Mental Health Day theme focuses on “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” highlighting the importance of ensuring mental healthcare during crises and emergencies. The campaign also emphasises the message “Real Voices, Real Change,” calling for the experiences of people living with mental health conditions to be heard and acknowledged. According to the WHO, the initiative seeks to ensure that the perspectives of people facing mental health challenges are incorporated into policymaking, treatment strategies and support systems. The observance highlights the urgent need to eliminate stigma, strengthen mental health services and ensure that people across Pakistan can access timely, affordable and quality care.