KARACHI: Sindh Mental Health Authority (SMHA) Chairman Dr. Karim Khawaja has noted that mental health issues are now among the most common health concerns, second only to cardiovascular diseases, and may lead to serious consequences if left unaddressed. He was addressing an awareness session held as part of the largest two-day Mental Health Drive in collaboration with Thar Foundation, benefiting over 1,000 community members and workers in Thar Block II.
Government Initiatives for Mental Healthcare
Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah is directing serious efforts to improve mental healthcare services across the province. The provincial government provides free medicines for mental health treatment. However, Dr. Karim emphasized the need for stronger preventive measures against substance abuse, which is becoming a major cause of mental health disorders.
Tele-Counselling Helpline Launched
Dr. Karim informed that a tele-counselling helpline connecting remote villages to psychiatrists was launched at Civil Hospital Mithi and Hyderabad with support from Thar Foundation. Outpatient (OPD) attendance at Mithi’s civil hospital has increased manifold, as awareness sessions have helped dispel myths about mental health conditions and break the stigma.
Partnership Achievements
Under the partnership with Thar Foundation, SMHA has trained Lady Health Workers as first responders, completed a comprehensive awareness survey, and conducted a Psychological Autopsy study—the first of its kind in South Asia—to establish an evidence-based baseline for targeted intervention.
Farhan Ansari, General Manager of Thar Foundation, commended SMHA for prioritizing youth and school-going children in Thar, with teachers now being trained in mental health awareness. He added that the Foundation is creating opportunities for healthy activities that support better mental health for Thar’s youth. Secretary of SMHA, Dr. Syed Zafar Mehdi, also attended the sessions.
