Islamabad (GNP): National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has described mental health as essential to individual well-being and to building a healthy, harmonious and stable society. In a message marking World Mental Health Day, observed every year on October 10, he said that spreading public awareness and ending the stigma attached to psychological problems are urgent priorities.
The Speaker noted that mental health difficulties are not limited to a particular age group or section of society and can touch people of every age and background. Greater awareness, early diagnosis and effective treatment, he said, matter more than ever today. Mental health conditions, he added, should be regarded as serious health issues and not as a sign of weakness.
Sadiq stressed that people in psychological distress deserve to be treated with compassion, respect and understanding, and should not face discrimination or exclusion. He called for an environment in which people can speak openly about their concerns and feel safe seeking medical and psychological help in good time.
He urged special attention to the mental health of children and young people, pointing out that their intellectual, emotional and social growth is closely tied to the well-being of society as a whole. Families, schools and communities, he said, should encourage positive attitudes toward mental health and actively support those facing difficulties.
Addressing mental health challenges effectively, the Speaker said, requires coordination among the government, Parliament, relevant institutions, health professionals and civil society. He called for collective action to raise public awareness, widen access to quality medical and psychological care, and put effective support systems in place for those who need them.
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He concluded by affirming that Parliament will continue to fulfil its constitutional and legislative responsibilities in advancing public welfare, social inclusion and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
