Minister calls for coordinated approach to mental health

Islamabad : Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection Syed Imran Ahmed Shah has called for a coordinated, comprehensive and people-centred approach to address mental health challenges and ensure accessible and quality mental health services for all sections of society.

Addressing the Pakistan Global Mental Health Summit 2026 here as chief guest, the minister stressed the need to strengthen the mental health system through coordinated action involving the government, provincial authorities, development partners, universities, civil society and other stakeholders.

The two-day summit brought together national and international mental health experts, policymakers, development partners, UN agencies, academics and civil society representatives to discuss ways to strengthen Pakistan’s mental health system, expand access to quality services and promote sustainable financing and community-based care.