The Silent Scream: A Cry for Help from the Pakistani Youth

Being a Pakistani youth, I have witnessed every kind of injustice, brutality, poverty, and corruption throughout my time as a journalist. However, there is one problem that has been disregarded for far too long: the young mental health crisis in Pakistan.

The Weight of Expectations

 It’s indeed alarming to see young Pakistanis struggling to cope with the immense pressure to succeed in their personal, professional, and academic lives. The weight of expectations from family, society, and themselves can be crushing, leading to a range of negative consequences.

 Why the young Pakistanis might be resorting to substance addiction, despair, and anxiety?

1. Social pressure: In Pakistani society, there is a strong emphasis on family honor and reputation. Parents may pressure their children to excel academically, professionally, and socially to maintain family prestige. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.

2. Cultural expectations: The concept of “izzat” (honor) is deeply ingrained in Pakistani culture. Young people may feel they need to live up to certain expectations to maintain their family’s honor, which can be overwhelming.

3. Economic pressures: In many cases, young people are expected to contribute financially to their families from a young age. This can lead to feelings of responsibility and stress.

4. Lack of support: In some cases, young people may not have access to emotional support or guidance from family members, teachers, or mentors. This can leave them feeling isolated and unable to cope with their challenges.

5. Comparison culture: The widespread use of social media can create unrealistic comparisons and competition among young people. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

6. Mental health stigma: There is still a stigma surrounding mental health issues in Pakistani culture. Young people may be hesitant to seek help or discuss their struggles due to fear of being judged or ostracized.

7. Limited access to resources: In some cases, young people may not have access to resources such as counseling services, mental health professionals, or support groups.

The Lack of Resources

As a journalist, I have personally witnessed the dearth of resources that are available to our youth. There are few mental health services available, and those that are are frequently out of reach for budgetary reasons. It’s a vicious circle whereby our youth struggle to manage their mental health and we struggle to give them the assistance they require.

The Societal Stigma

The largest barrier, though, is the stigma that society has attached to mental illness. Mental health problems are still widely stigmatized in Pakistan, and individuals who do experience them are frequently shunned and shunned by society. This culture has to shift, and it must do so immediately.

The Impact on Society

The youth mental health crisis in Pakistan is a societal problem as well as a personal one. It has an impact on our relationships, education system, and economy. Our youth are less engaged, less productive, and less likely to achieve while they are battling mental health issues.

The Call to Action

What then are our options? We must first and foremost admit that there is a crisis. We must acknowledge that youth mental health is a serious problem that requires attention, and we must act to address it. Funding for mental health services has to be increased, youth need to have greater resources and support, and the stigma associated with mental illness needs to be changed.

A Cry for Help

Above all, though, we must pay attention to our youth. Their calls for assistance must be heard, and we must provide them a secure and encouraging environment where they can ask for assistance without worrying about being judged or ashamed. We owe it to our future selves as much as to them.

Conclusion

As a journalist from Pakistan, I have personally witnessed the hardships faced by our youth. I have witnessed the hopelessness, despair, and desperation in their hearts and eyes. I also know that together, we can change things. We have the power to build a future where our children can flourish without worrying about being rejected or left behind. Our youth can live in a world free from fear of anything if we so choose. Being a part of a movement that aims to provide our youth a better future makes me proud. Together, let’s break the taboo and provide our youth with the resources they require to succeed.

To address these concerns, it’s essential to create a supportive environment that encourages young people to open up about their struggles and seek help without fear of judgment. Here are some potential solutions:

1. Raise awareness about mental health: Educate young people about mental health issues, their symptoms, and the importance of seeking help.
2. Encourage open communication: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for young people to discuss their struggles and feelings.
3. Provide access to resources:  Ensure that young people have access to counseling services, mental health professionals, and support groups.
4. Foster a growth mindset: Encourage young people to focus on progress rather than perfection, and praise their efforts rather than just their achievements.
5. Supportive family environments: Encourage parents and family members to create a supportive environment that encourages open communication and understanding.

By acknowledging the challenges faced by young Pakistanis and addressing these issues proactively, we can work towards creating a more compassionate and supportive society that empowers young people to thrive emotionally and mentally.