In Pakistan, the stigma surrounding mental health is a very complicated issue which is inter-woven with many other social issues that plague our society. The issue with acknowledging our mental health problems is very closely tied with the traditions and sub-cultures within Pakistan. Factors such as patriarchy and religious beliefs also play a role in associating shame with psychological instability. Due to these social beliefs and other complexities those struggling with mental health problems suffer in silence.
Many people in Pakistan either don’t have access to a mental health professional or are not aware that such a facility exists let alone that they should consult a psychologist. Sometimes we feel that it is easier to hide their symptoms and isolate ourselves. Sometimes we don’t find courage to speak out about our problems. Seeking help becomes more difficult. We have been taught not to take up too much space. We have been taught to not be too loud and attract attention towards ourselves. When we don’t share our issues with anyone finding a solution for them becomes virtually impossible.
Very often when we share our problems others may advise us to pray namaz more regularly and ask God to ease our pain. And they mean well when they say this. And for many people turning to the Almighty for help in difficult times has been the best solution. But, perhaps we can combine our prayers with other forms of help. In addition to dua we can also consult a psychologist and go to therapy sessions and take our prescribed medication. God says that He helps those who help themselves. And it is possible to take both approaches side by side.
Part of being a helpful and empathetic human being is to recognize that every solution does not work for everyone. So maybe some people may not find praying as effective as others. We should try to figure out what works for us. Let’s not judge people on whether they go to the masjid or the therapy clinic for help, everyone is leading their own journey. All we can do is help each other find their way.
In Pakistan, we need to approach mental illnesses with a more scientific approach. What we need to understand is that mental illnesses are often times due to chemical imbalances in our brains.
Here at Madadgaar, we are trying to play our part to help reduce this stigma. We dream of Stigma Free Pakistan. As that will lead to a society where it is easier to seek out help and get access to mental health facilities. At the same time it is very important to do everything we can at an individual level to remove this stigma.
We should talk about our own struggles and the hardships of those around us in order to rule out misconceptions attached with mental health. We need to acknowledge mental disorders the way we do physical disorders. We should not continue to suffer only because social pressure makes us unwilling to accept our own realities. Let’s embrace our true selves.
There is no shame in talking about mental health issues and seeking help.
Madadgaar is a safe space where you can seek help without any judgement. Your confidentiality and well-being are our top priorities.
In Pakistani culture having mental illness is considered to be a weakness. Instead of solving this riddle people believe that we should just ‘get over it’. Often people feel alone in this struggle and that they have to overcome this obstacle on their own. No one wants negative labels attached to them. In many cases people don’t even deal with mental trauma. They just sweep it under the rug and hope that it will be gone and forgotten. When we don’t find solutions to our problems; we let it grow. Pushing our demons in the dark only make their shadows seem scarier. It is only when we turn on the light and try to face our seemingly huge monsters do we discover, that maybe they aren’t undefeatable at all. Maybe we are stronger than we think.
Madadgaar 