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KARACHI May 21,2026:Sindh Mental Health Authority (SMHA), in collaboration with Thar Foundation, organized large-scale mental health awareness sessions in Thar Block II on May 21, 2026. As a result, more than 1,000 community members and workers benefited from the drive.
Moreover, mental health experts and psychiatrists stressed the importance of mental well-being. They highlighted early diagnosis and timely treatment. In addition, SMHA Chairman Dr. Karim Khawaja said mental health issues rank as the second most common health concern after cardiovascular diseases. He warned that untreated cases can lead to serious consequences.
Furthermore, he appreciated Thar Foundation’s continued support since 2019. He noted that both organizations launched a tele-counselling helpline that connects remote villages with psychiatrists at Civil Hospital Mithi and Hyderabad. Consequently, OPD attendance at Mithi Civil Hospital has increased significantly as awareness efforts reduced stigma and misconceptions.
Meanwhile, SMHA and Thar Foundation trained Lady Health Workers as first responders. They also completed a comprehensive awareness survey and the first Psychological Autopsy study in South Asia. Therefore, they established an evidence-based baseline for targeted interventions.
Additionally, Dr. Karim Khawaja said Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah is actively pushing reforms in mental healthcare across Sindh. He added that the provincial government now provides free medicines for treatment. However, he stressed that stronger preventive action against substance abuse is still needed.
On the other hand, Thar Foundation GM Farhan Ansari praised SMHA for focusing on youth and schoolchildren. He said teachers are now receiving mental health training. Moreover, he highlighted initiatives like the Sadiq Faqir Music Academy and Thar Cricket Academy, which promote healthy activities for young people.
Similarly, Dr. Bharat emphasized teacher training for early identification of behavioral changes in students. Psychiatrist Dr. Parveen Channar explained that changes in behavior, thinking, and performance often signal early mental illness linked to depression. In addition, experts linked mental health challenges in Tharparkar to poverty, family conflict, domestic violence, and lack of services.
Finally, Dr. Laghari urged people to improve daily lifestyles and adopt positive habits for better mental well-being. Secretary SMHA Dr. Syed Zafar Mehdi also attended the sessions.
