
Since mental health has recently been shown to be an essential part of overall well-being, it has gained attention on a global scale in recent years. However, in Pakistan, mental health awareness still does not get the attention it needs. Mental health is something that is not talked about enough and is seen to be a taboo topic within family discussions as well. It is often overshadowed by more immediate socio-economic and political issues.
Mental health issues have not received much attention from Pakistani media in the past. Mental health issues are frequently sensationalized, stigmatized, or misinterpreted when they are discussed. Myths and misconceptions are reinforced by the absence of truthful coverage and discussion of mental health issues in the media, which adds to the widespread stigma attached to these issues. However, now Pakistani media has taken steps towards promoting mental health awareness through social media and digital media. Pakistani drama industry has also taken steps towards creating awareness for mental health by making dramas and documentaries tackling the issues.

Dramas like "Udaari" which aired on Hum TV took the initiative to showcase the impact of mental health abuse. The psychological anguish endured by victims of child abuse was addressed in this drama. The drama emphasizes the significance of therapy and support as well as the long-term emotional and mental health effects of abuse by concentrating on the journey of its main character, Zebo. In addition to bringing attention to how common child abuse is, the program also stressed how important it is for survivors to receive psychiatric support. This was a first in Pakistani industry and the drama received a lot of support and praise from the audience for raising a voice for an issue as important as this.

"Yeh dil mera" was another popular drama that aimed to change how people in Pakistan looked at mental health issues and create awareness for the audience. The drama featured Aina, a woman who suffers from extreme hallucinations and PTSD as a result of seeing her mother getting murdered and traumatic flashbacks of her past. The drama highlighted how such issues can cause troubles for young minds like Aina’s who aims to achieve success and can make them struggle to adjust to society. Moreover, the drama tackled the common myth of Pakistanis blaming all mental health issues on the evil eye, black magic, or spirits. The drama perfectly enabled viewers to understand that the common problems faced by people can be due to underlying mental health illness and not some other factor. It focused the audience's attention on taking into consideration the impact of mental health and how it can be a factor in ruining one's life. Moreover, the drama also showed that one can have everything in life, wealth, success, and love but if one is mentally disturbed, their life is bound to get ruined unless given proper treatment.
Another drama was "Bhaaghi" based on the life of Qandeel Baloch played by Saba Qamar. The drama highlighted the mental health issues Qandeel had to face and the impact it had on her life. This show emphasized the difficulties people with mental health have as they deal with pressure from their families and society. It emphasized the psychological costs of social criticism and cyberbullying and demonstrated how these elements may worsen serious mental health problems. The drama demanded more understanding and assistance for people overlooked in public. This was an important drama in depicting the consequences of mental health and how severe mental health problems can change a person.
The Pakistani industry has also produced some great documentaries to create awareness for mental health. The first one is "Asad's Story" which is a documentary following the life of a man named Asad who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Through offering a close-up view of Asad's life, the documentary sought to lessen stigma and humanize those who suffer from schizophrenia. It shows his everyday life in detail and showcases the struggles he has to go through and the impact on his family. Another one is "Out of the Shadows" which represents the lives of multiple people who go through different mental health issues and how they cope with it. In addition to highlighting the need for improved mental health services and policies, it seeks to debunk myths and misconceptions regarding mental disease which is not very common in Pakistani society.
Another important way Pakistani media has played a role in tackling mental health issues is through certain talk shows and campaigns aimed specifically at mental health awareness. Some of the Pakistani talk shows have added a segment to their shows that just focuses on mental health. The segment calls in experts to talk about symptoms that are commonly ignored, treatment, and how to get it under control. One example of this segment comes from the "Morning with Juggan" show on PTV which often touches upon mental health issues by calling experts on their show to help the audience understand how important it is to overcome these issues. Another show was "Khabarnaak" hosted by Aftab Iqbal where he specifically mentioned mental health issues and how appropriate treatment was necessary for such issues. He constantly brought up the topic and used information and facts to emphasize his point. Geo TV also initiated a campaign "Speak your heart" to encourage open conversations and reduce stigma around mental health.

Social Media has been one key instrument used by Pakistanis to freely advocate for mental health issues and find comfortable platforms to let go of their suffering and find support. Influencers with large following have started talking more about the impacts of mental health and addressing the problems associated with it. For example, celebrities like Mahira Khan and Kubra Khan have openly talked about anxiety and how they dealt with it multiple times. Moreso, hashtags like #breakthestigma and #mentalhealthawareness have allowed social media users to get help and reach a wider audience struggling with the same issues as them. People can talk about and get assistance for their mental health issues in a safe environment by participating in online forums and support groups. For people in need of support, Facebook groups such as "Mental Health Awareness Pakistan" and initiatives like "Humans of Karachi" offer information, personal accounts, and a sense of support. Instagram accounts like "TalkItOut" and "Therapy Works" post educational content regarding mental health issues, coping mechanisms, and the value of getting treatment. A wider audience can now receive mental health information thanks to these platforms.
Previously mental health was ignored in Pakistani society due to the stigma associated with it and misinterpretation of the issues. In Pakistan, taboos and misconceptions about mental health are strongly ingrained in cultural views. Mental health problems are frequently seen as a sign of weakness. However, Pakistani society is gradually moving towards breaking this stigma and creating an environment where the victims of mental health issues can find comfort and openly talk about their suffering. By emphasizing the need for better mental health services, financing, and research, increased media coverage of mental health issues can influence legislative changes. Policymakers may be forced to give mental health a higher priority due to public pressure brought about by media activism.
Pakistani media is trying to break the stigma and it is important that the media openly advocates for mental health awareness and creates an environment that breaks the stigma associated with mental health in the society. The media is trying to become more progressive about mental health issues but it is still a long way to go in terms of dramas and digital media. Social media is an exception as it allows users to be connected with others from all over the world. Social media also allows its users to find an audience that is relatable and can support them.
Mental health is important and must be addressed appropriately.
The blog "From Stigma to Support: How Pakistani Media is Changing Mental Health Narratives" sheds light on a crucial shift in how mental health is portrayed in Pakistani media. It resonates deeply with me because it addresses a significant cultural taboo that affects many societies, including Pakistan's. The portrayal of mental health issues in dramas like "Udaari" and "Yeh Dil Mera" reflects a growing recognition of these issues and their impact on individuals. I agree that these media efforts are essential in breaking down stigma and fostering empathy. However, I also see the need for more diversity in these portrayals to encompass the full spectrum of mental health experiences, beyond the dramatic narratives often depicted. While social media plays a…
I agree with the post that Pakistani media has shifted to talking about mental health issues and this is mostly done through social media. The drama serials raising mental health concerns are few but all of these dramas were blockblusters and hits, indicating that people are interested in such content. While social media campaigning can be helpful, mainstream media and cinema can reach a much wider audience therefore, in my opinion more dramas like udaari and yeh dil mera need to be made to spread awareness.
It's encouraging to see Pakistani dramas like "Udaari," "Yeh Dil Mera," and "Darr Si Jaati Hai Sila" address significant mental health topics. These dramas have played an important role in sparking conversations and drawing light on the challenges that people with mental illnesses confront in our society. While "Yeh Dil Mera" deserves credit for addressing issues such as PTSD and hallucinations, it is important to note that its portrayal of such people can at times reinforce stereotypes. The ending of the drama raises questions about whether persons with mental health issues can live normal lives or have healthy relationships. This highlights a critical point concerning the media's influence in creating attitudes. While these shows raise awareness about mental health, they also…
Your blog post is very well-researched and thoroughly written. Pakistan's media have played a great role in trying to overcome the taboos regarding mental health issues, and these initiative needs to be taken further ahead. Pakistan media can also launch discussion forums that can have panel talks, Q&As, and open dialogue regarding the awareness of these issues and how badly they can affect one's life. Partnerships with multiple mental health organizations, such as the Pakistan Association for Mental Health. This partnership can help provide accurate depictions and information regarding critical scenarios. Another example I have of such dramas is "Ishq Zar e Naseeb," where the character Sameer has DID and shows his traumatic life experiences and challenges of multiple personalities.
this was very well researched and comprehensive! mental health has always been a taboo in pakistan and im glad to see current media reflecting changing ideals in pakistan and shifting the stigma around it. pakistani dramas are targetted towards the demographic of young to middleaged women whose plights of mental health issues often go unnoticed and unheard. so it is a great step forward that if these dramas normalise getting help for these mental health issues then they may be able to open up to their loved ones about them and get the help that they need. however, one thing i do want to point out is that these dramas should also advocate for therapy or treatment of mental health…