Pakistan pledges to advance mental health initiatives: President 

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari affirmed Pakistan's commitment to enhancing the nation’s mental health and improving mental health facilities.

“On this day, I encourage everyone to adopt healthier lifestyles, stay connected with loved ones, and engage in regular physical activity to manage stress and anxiety. Together, through our individual and collective efforts, we can build a healthier nation,” he stated in a message for World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10.

The president emphasized the significance of raising awareness about mental health and the importance of providing counseling and support to those in need. This year’s theme, “Mental Health at Work,” underscores the necessity of creating healthy work environments that safeguard and promote mental well-being.

“According to the World Health Organization, nearly 60% of the world’s population is in the workforce, making it more urgent than ever to address mental health in the workplace,” he noted in a press release.

He highlighted that harassment and poor working conditions negatively impact workers’ mental health and productivity. Therefore, it is essential for employers and stakeholders to foster a healthy work environment to enhance mental well-being and boost productivity.

Zardari also announced the launch of the National Mental Health Helpline (1166), reflecting Pakistan's dedication to providing accessible support. This helpline connects individuals to vital services, including local treatment facilities and support networks.

Furthermore, he expressed pride in Pakistan being the first country to develop a cost-benefit package for essential health services, which includes mental health interventions at both primary healthcare and community levels.