KARACHI: Sindh Mental Health Authority (SMHA) on Saturday organized mental health awareness program to sensitize general public and other stakeholders of the society.
Chairman, Sindh Mental Health Authority (SMHA), Senator Kareem Ahmed Khawaja , while talking to PPI, said authority was made to devise strategy for people who are suffering from psychological or behavioural disorders . He said an estimated 15 to 20 per cent population is living with psychological disorders in Pakistan as well as in Sindh.
He informed that Sindh Mental Health Authority Bill was passed by Sindh Assembly in 2013 and later amendment was done in authority in 2015. He said Sindh government had notified Sindh Mental Health Authority in October 2017 to make policy for welfare of people suffering from mental disorders.
He said prevalence of depression is more common in Pakistan in compared with other mental disorders. He informed that event was organised to highlights the role stakeholders including lawyers, journalists and others who gave feedback and took part in formation of this law.
Clinical Psychiatrist Rubeena Kidwai, said public awareness, strategy & planning, patient rights, confidentiality and punishments for attendants will be ensured through this law. She said special courts would be established for rights of people suffering from mental disorders.
Renowned Psychiatrist Dr Haroon Ahmed and people from all walk of life attended the event.