In Pakistan, relationship problems and financial difficulties are linked to anxiety and depression, whereas supportive family and friends may protect against the development of these disorders.
These disorders are an emerging public health threat in low income countries.
Researchers analysed 20 studies conducted in Pakistan that focused on anxiety and depressive disorders in adults.
Relationship problems, financial difficulties, and low education level were all linked to these disorders, whereas supportive family and friends were not.
The overall prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders was 34 percent, but this figure may not apply to the whole population.
Pakistan’s population has been exposed to sociopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, violence, and conflict for at least the past three decades.
These are risk factors for psychiatric disorders. The time is right for Pakistan to build on this effort and develop a national strategy to tackle mental illness.
SANA ALTAF
Lahore