ISLAMABAD
The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) has joined the global community in observing World Mental Health Day 2025 under the official theme “Access to mental health services in catastrophes and emergencies.”
The observance underscored the urgent need to strengthen mental health systems and ensure timely, equitable, and stigma-free access to psychological care, particularly during crises and disasters.
Addressing a special event at PIMS, Professor Rizwan Taj, Professor of Psychiatry, said that mental health challenges often intensify in the aftermath of disasters, conflicts, and emergencies.
“Catastrophes—whether natural, or social can have lasting psychological impacts,” he noted. “Yet, mental health remains one of the most neglected areas in disaster response. It is imperative that psychological first aid, counseling, and psychiatric care are integrated into emergency health services from the very beginning.”
He urged stronger coordination among healthcare institutions, government departments, and humanitarian agencies to ensure that mental health support reaches every level from hospitals to community outreach programs.
Professor Imran Sikandar, Executive Director of PIMS, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to strengthening emergency mental health response and awareness.
“At PIMS, we are focused on building capacity in emergency mental health response and training frontline healthcare workers to identify and manage psychological distress,” he said.
“Mental well-being is not a luxury; it is a fundamental human right that must be safeguarded, even and especially during crises.”
Both speakers called on the media, and the public to acknowledge that recovery and resilience are not limited to physical healing. Addressing mental health needs during catastrophes, they said, it plays a crucial role in restoring social cohesion, aiding rehabilitation, and saving lives.
“PIMS continues to provide comprehensive mental health care through its Department of Psychiatry, which offers inpatient and outpatient services, counseling, and crisis intervention.”
On World Mental Health Day 2025, the institution reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring accessible mental health support for all Pakistanis, especially those affected by emergencies and life-changing adversities.
