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Karachi Psychiatric Hospital organised a special seminar to mark World Mental Health Day 2026, bringing together medical experts, psychologists, media representatives and other distinguished guests to promote mental health awareness.
The seminar featured Dr. Iqbal Afridi, Dr. Merajul Huda Siddiqui and Dr. Syed Abdul Rehman, psychologist and Managing Director of Karachi Psychiatric Hospital. Speakers stressed the importance of early diagnosis, accessible treatment and public awareness to address mental health challenges.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Syed Abdul Rehman thanked the guests and participants. He discussed the growing need for mental health awareness in Pakistan and urged the public to challenge the stigma surrounding psychological disorders.
Dr. Rehman emphasised that people should treat mental illnesses as medical conditions, just like physical illnesses. He urged patients and their families to seek professional help rather than hide symptoms, ignore concerns or rely on superstition.
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He also explained that effective mental health care requires more than treatment alone. Public awareness, early diagnosis, family involvement and community support all play important roles. In addition, he highlighted the need to listen to patients and understand their personal experiences.
The seminar also addressed the 2026 World Mental Health Day theme, “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change,” as stated in the event information.
The discussion focused on including the experiences of people living with mental health conditions in the development of policies, healthcare services and treatment decisions.
According to the event organisers, mental health services can become more responsive when healthcare professionals and policymakers listen to patients and consider their experiences.
Mental health conditions can affect daily activities, education, employment, family relationships and overall quality of life. However, timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment and support can help many people manage their conditions and improve their well-being.
Dr. Iqbal Afridi stressed that society must give mental health the same importance as physical health.
He urged people to respond to individuals experiencing mental health difficulties with empathy and understanding instead of criticism. He also called for collective efforts to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions and improve access to treatment.
Dr. Afridi added that early diagnosis, effective treatment and family support can help people manage mental health conditions.
Meanwhile, Dr. Merajul Huda Siddiqui described mental health protection as a foundation of a healthy and balanced society.
He emphasised the need to increase public awareness and make appropriate treatment more accessible. He also called on families and communities to support people experiencing psychological difficulties so they can lead healthier lives.
Karachi Psychiatric Hospital provides psychiatric and psychological healthcare services to patients from different parts of Pakistan.
According to information provided by the hospital, its facilities serve more than 130,000 patients annually. The hospital also reports that it operates around the clock and has more than 250 beds.
Its services include psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, treatment, psychology and social work support. The hospital also offers care for people experiencing depression, anxiety, sleep difficulties, substance use problems and family or marital challenges.
Furthermore, children and young people can access psychological assessments, IQ testing and guidance for educational and behavioural concerns.
The hospital also provides pharmacy services aimed at making medicines more affordable. In addition, it offers other diagnostic and medical support services according to patients’ needs.
The hospital operates multiple branches across Karachi and offers online consultations and guidance for patients seeking support from other parts of the country.
At the conclusion of the seminar, organisers thanked the chief guests, doctors, psychologists and other participants.
Karachi Psychiatric Hospital also reaffirmed its commitment to raising awareness, improving treatment access and supporting rehabilitation. The institution said it would continue working to improve the quality of mental health services in Pakistan.
The speakers collectively emphasised that reducing stigma, encouraging timely professional care and supporting patients with compassion can help build healthier communities.
[…] Karachi Psychiatric Hospital Marks World Mental Health Day 2026 With Awareness Seminar […]