PM&DC and PAPANA unite for mental health awareness

Islamabad:The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) has joined forces with the Pakistani Psychiatry Association of North America (PAPANA) in a groundbreaking initiative to launch a comprehensive mental health awareness campaign across Pakistan. This strategic alliance, aimed at increasing awareness, understanding, and destigmatisation of mental health issues, holds great promise for the nation.

Recognizing the critical role mental health plays in overall well-being, PM&DC, as the regulatory authority for medical and dental education and practice in Pakistan, is leveraging the expertise of PAPANA to bring international knowledge and best practices to benefit the Pakistani population.

Dr. Muhammad Zeeshan, President of PAPANA, highlighted the urgent need for mental health awareness, relevant courses, and training in response to the rising cases of depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. He expressed gratitude to President Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj for facilitating collaboration, revealing ongoing efforts in developing online courses, covering areas such as child psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, and elderly psychiatry. With a shortage of psychiatry literature in Pakistan, Dr. Zeeshan, Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj, and Harvard University Professor Dr. Harrison have co-authored two books aimed at medical and nursing students, addressing the gap in available resources.

President Dr. Muhammad Zeeshan outlined core objectives, emphasizing the importance of combating societal stigma, providing education on mental health conditions, and advocating for improved mental health policies and resources in Pakistan. Plans include educational workshops, media campaigns, and training programs for healthcare professionals.

President Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj emphasized the collaboration's significance in addressing Pakistan's mental health needs. A new book and online seminars for medical students have already been launched, and plans for further online seminars on the mentorship of teachers in medical colleges across Pakistan are in progress.

This collaboration between PM&DC and PAPANA signifies a pivotal moment in advancing mental health awareness and support in Pakistan. Both entities are committed to working together to create lasting change and contribute to the well-being of the Pakistani population.