Challenges in the Implementation of Mental Health Law in Pakistan & its implications on the quality of life and human rights

Pakistan is the sixth most populous country in the world where according to WHO, 10-16% of people suffer from mild to moderate psychiatric illnesses beside 1% which suffers serious psychiatric problems. However studies conducted in various areas of Pakistan shows much higher prevalence as compared to other developing countries. Particularly researches on common mental disorders (CMD) i.e. anxiety and depression have suggested the prevalence being very high in Pakistan. A Systematic review by Mirza and Jenkins reported 34% prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders (range 29-66% for women and 10-33% for men). WHO AIMS report on Mental Health systems in Pakistan mentions that the policy was revised in 2003, whereas even mental health professionals working in Pakistan have never seen it and it is also not available online on government website where other policies are available. The AIMS report states that “Mental health policy, plan and legislation do exist in the country but are not implemented.” People suffering from mental illness have no rights. Still patients are found chained in many hospitals, be victim of all kinds of unsuitable treatments including unnecessary ECTs (Electro convulsive therapy) and being exploited by the faith healers. This paper is an attempt to understand the context which has led to the in-activeness of mental health policy and lack of enforcement of mental health ordinance and to suggest future possibilities for its implementation to reduce the violation of human rights and improve the quality of life of people suffering from it.