Allied Hospital-II hosts seminar and walk on World Mental Health Day: Over 32 million facing psychological challenges in Pakistan, warns Prof. Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad Dogar

Faisalabad 12 Oct (DIGITAL ITLA): According to the Directorate of Public Relations Government of Punjab Faisalabad, Allied Hospital-II organized a special seminar and awareness walk to mark World Mental Health Day. Vice Chancellor Faisalabad Medical University (FMU) Professor Dr. Syed Asghar Ali Naqi graced the event as chief guest, alongside prominent psychiatrist Professor Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad Dogar, Dr. Maqsood, Dr. Zafar Ali, Dr. Mohyuddin, Dr. Shahid, Dr. Ghulam Mustafa, medical professionals, nursing staff, and a large number of students.

Addressing the audience, renowned psychiatrist Prof. Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad Dogar revealed that approximately 32.5 million people in Pakistan are currently suffering from various mental health disorders, marking an alarming trend. He highlighted that excessive mobile phone usage (8 to 10 hours daily) among youth and the rising prevalence of narcotics—specifically the rapid spread of crystal meth (ice)—are major catalysts for severe psychological disorders. He urged parents to actively monitor and protect their children from digital addiction and substance abuse.

In his remarks, FMU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Syed Asghar Ali Naqi emphasized that a healthy society relies fundamentally on mental well-being. He acknowledged the acute shortage of psychiatric wards, hospital beds, and dedicated mental health specialties across public health institutions, adding that concerted efforts are underway to bridge these gaps.

The event concluded with an awareness walk led by faculty members and medical staff to promote mental health advocacy and reduce societal stigma.