Mental illness now second most common health concern after heart disease

Chairman of the Sindh Mental Health Authority, Dr Karim Khawaja, has said that mental health disorders have become one of the most common health issues after cardiovascular diseases and can lead to serious consequences if not addressed in time. He expressed these views during an awareness session held as part of a two-day Mental Health Drive organized in collaboration with Thar Foundation for more than 1,000 community members and workers in Thar Block II. Dr Karim said that Syed Murad Ali Shah is taking serious steps to improve mental healthcare services across the province. He noted that the Sindh government is providing free medicines for mental health treatment, but emphasized the need for stronger preventive measures against substance abuse, which is emerging as a major cause of mental health disorders. He further informed participants that a tele-counselling helpline connecting remote villages with psychiatrists has been launched at Civil Hospital Mithi and Hyderabad with the support of Thar Foundation. According to officials, outpatient attendance at Civil Hospital Mithi has increased significantly as awareness campaigns have helped communities overcome misconceptions and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. Under its partnership with Thar Foundation, the Sindh Mental Health Authority has also trained Lady Health Workers as first responders, completed a comprehensive awareness survey, and conducted a Psychological Autopsy study — the first initiative of its kind in South Asia — to establish an evidence-based foundation for targeted interventions. Meanwhile, Farhan Ansari praised the SMHA for focusing on youth and school-going children in Thar. He said teachers are now receiving mental health awareness training, while the Foundation is also creating opportunities for healthy activities aimed at improving the mental well-being of young people in the region. Fake officials fleecing healthcare providers, PHC issues alert