ilgit-Baltistan, home to towering peaks, clear rivers and enchanting valleys, reflects both natural splendour and the resilience of its people. This breathtaking environment and a responsive governance structure have created a unique foundation for progressive social initiatives. However, a pressing challenge has emerged: youth mental health.

While the region is celebrated for its serene environment, many young people in Gilgit-Baltistan face stress, anxiety and emotional instability. Limited access to specialised services, social stigma and gaps in awareness intensify these challenges.

The government of Gilgit-Baltistan has now launched the Growing Minds Support Services – Student Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Initiative in partnership with the Faisalabad Medical University.” This collaboration reflects an approach integrating policy leadership, academic expertise and community engagement to address a complex public health concern.

At the institutional level, the FMU has demonstrated remarkable agility and leadership, developing comprehensive modules for mental health screening, early identification and teacher training. The 10-day Training of Trainers programme equips educators with evidence-based tools to detect early warning signs and provide immediate psycho-social support. By positioning teachers as early responders, mental health care begins where students spend most of their time: on campuses.

Chief Secretary Abrar Mirza has shown visionary leadership by prioritising the empowerment of youth through inspirational initiatives. His support for programmes focused on mental health, counselling services and awareness campaigns demonstrates a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the young people. His efforts are fostering a resilient, confident and productive generation and laying the groundwork for a healthy society.

The role of FMU Vice Chancellor, Dr Zafar Chaudhry, is equally significant. His strategic governance has strengthened the university’s engagement with this initiative. His commitment to academic excellence and socially responsible programmes ensures that the FMU not only provides technical and academic support but also contributes to sustainable frameworks for youth mental health.

A key pillar of this initiative is the leadership of Dr Imtiaz Dogar, head of Psychiatry and Behavioural Science Department at Allied Hospital II. Dr Dogar has served two terms as president of Pakistan Psychiatric Society and represented the SAARC Psychiatric Society on several occasion. His clinical expertise and strategic vision enhance the credibility of the programme. Under his guidance, the initiative is implementing advanced screening protocols, structured referral pathways and targeted therapeutic interventions, ensuring a culturally sensitive and sustainable mental health framework.

Dismantling stigma and fostering an environment where mental health is openly discussed and problems addressed without fear of discrimination is critical to success.

To contextualise rehabilitation within mental health systems, one must acknowledge the pioneering work of Fountain House in Pakistan.

The initiative adopted a multi-dimensional framework encompassing early diagnosis, accessible counselling, family and community engagement and economic empowerment through skills training. Dismantling stigma and fostering an environment where mental health problems are openly discussed and addressed without fear of discrimination is critical to its success.

Globally, youth mental health is recognised as a defining challenge of the 21st Century. Countries like the United States and the United Kingdom employ technologically advanced system-wide approaches, including tele-psychiatry, AI-driven screening tools, digital therapy platforms and school-integrated counselling services. In the US, tele-health has revolutionised access to mental health care, particularly in rural regions. The UK embeds mental health services within educational institutions through structured national frameworks.

The Gilgit-Baltistan initiative aligns with these practices while remaining rooted in local realities. Strategic partnerships, visionary leadership and academic excellence are driving the change. Investing in youth mental health is not just a social responsibility but a strategic imperative for sustainable development.

A noteworthy aspect of the programme is the plan to establish 20 psychological support units. The hybrid model—combining physical outreach with digital connectivity—addresses the geographical constraints of the region and aligns with global best practices in tele-mental health.

In sprioritising mental well-being, fostering resilience and enabling young individuals to realise their full potential, Gilgit-Baltistan is establishing a model for regions facing similar challenges. Strategic leadership, institutional support and expert guidance will ensure that the programme is comprehensive as well as sustainable.

Mental health is increasingly recognised as integral to human development.

The writer is a former chairman of the Department of Entomology at University of Agriculture, Faisalabad.