At a press conference held at the Karachi Press Club in connection with World Brain Day 2025, top neurologists and healthcare experts voiced serious concerns over the growing mental health crisis facing Pakistan’s youth.
Dr. Muhammad Wasay, a well-known neurologist and President of the Neurology Awareness and Research Foundation (NARF), shared that around 15 percent of young people in the country are currently dealing with some form of mental health disorder.
This year’s World Brain Day carries the theme “Brain Health and Wellbeing: A Priority for All,” underscoring how essential mental wellness is for leading a meaningful and dignified life.
Specialists present at the event explained that mental health goes beyond the absence of illness; it’s a key part of a person’s overall well-being.
On a global scale, it’s estimated that 43 percent of people suffer from neurological or mental conditions.
Dr. Wasay expressed concern over Pakistan’s limited resources, revealing that there are only 400 neurologists available nationwide.
He also highlighted how district hospitals and basic health units lack proper facilities for neurological and psychiatric care.
“Mental health is a basic human right and should be prioritized throughout life,” said Dr. Wasay. “Unfortunately, stigma and misconceptions prevent many from seeking timely help.”
Professor Dr. Abdul Malik, General Secretary of NARF, added that the number of stroke cases in Pakistan has doubled in the last ten years.
He advised families to pay attention to brain health by eating well, keeping blood pressure and diabetes under control, and living an overall healthier lifestyle to avoid neurological diseases.
Dr. Malik also pointed out that in countries like Pakistan, poor maternal and child healthcare, pollution, and low immunization coverage are major contributors to neurological problems in children.
He urged improvements in rehabilitation services, physiotherapy access, and education for children with special needs.
Another senior neurologist, Dr. Wajid Jawaid, called for a collective effort from the government, medical professionals, the media, and the public to improve mental health awareness.
He said that building strong social connections, staying physically active, and thinking positively can help prevent anxiety and depression.
He noted that women and children are especially vulnerable, with poor maternal nutrition, poverty, and social pressures all having a negative effect on their brain development.
Experts at the event asked the government to take solid steps such as promoting early diagnosis, busting superstitions, spreading awareness, and ensuring affordable treatment and rehabilitation for those suffering from neurological conditions. They also pushed for a nationwide focus on neurological care and research.
On this year’s World Brain Day, NARF urged everyone to look after their brain health with proper nutrition, timely care, healthy routines, and a positive attitude, reminding the public that a healthy brain builds a stronger society.