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TRIGGER WARNING: MENTIONS OF SUICIDE

Actor Nadia Afgan has taken to social media to raise awareness about mental health for Suicide Prevention Month.

In a video posted to her Instagram on Monday, Afgan collaborated with psychiatrist and psychotherapist Usama Bin Zubair to deliver a public service announcement. In the video, she emphasised the significance of addressing mental health challenges and urged her followers to be mindful of those around them who may be struggling.

“I’m sure most of you know that September is suicide prevention month,” Afgan said. “So, let’s talk about mental awareness and mental health challenges — how crucial it is and how much it affects us directly or indirectly. First things first, I think we should look out for one another. If we know someone close to us, a family member or a friend, is facing some mental health challenge, we must provide them with a safe space where they can talk about their struggles openly.”

She stressed the importance of creating a judgement-free zone for people to express their emotions and difficulties. Afgan highlighted the need for understanding and empathy when listening to someone in distress and encouraged everyone to offer help whenever possible.

“We must listen to them without judgement, and support them by offering them help,” she said.

She also urged everyone facing mental health issues to seek professional help and reach out to those around them. “If you are facing some mental health issues, then I just want to tell you that it is very important to seek professional help. I also encourage you to reach out to those around you. It is high time that we tackle this stigma around mental health issues in our society and start supporting each other.”

Afgan’s video is a reminder to stay vigilant and supportive of the people around you. In her caption, she reiterated the need to work together to create a more inclusive space for everyong: “Together, we can make a difference and foster a culture of understanding, empathy, and support.”

Mental health remains a heavily stigmatised subject in many parts of the world, including Pakistan, where seeking help is often seen as a sign of weakness. We’ve debunked some common myths about mental health struggles for your awareness in the following post:

According to data from WHO and a 2020 report by Dawn, an estimated 15 to 35 people die by suicide in Pakistan every day. The reasons range from mental health issues to social pressures and economic hardships.

A more recent Dawn report states that the suicide mortality rate in Pakistan is on the rise with the World Health Organisation (WHO) observing 7.3 suicides per 100,000 people in 2019, 8.9 in 2020 and 9.8 in 2022.

Recognising the signs that someone is struggling can make all the difference. Look out for

1. Extreme mood swings or sudden changes in behaviour
2. Withdrawal from family and friends
3. Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or like they are a burden
4. Increase in substance use or reckless behaviour
5. Giving away possessions or saying goodbyes as if they won’t be seen again.

Listening to people, taking them seriously, and encouraging them to seek professional help is crucial. If you or anyone around you is struggling with mental health, here are some places to reach out to for help:

1. Rozan Counselling Helpline: 0304-111-1741
2. Umang Hotline (Mental Health Support): 03117786264
3. Taskeen Helpline: 0316 8275336

Last year, the government also launched Humraaz, a mental health application, along with an integrated helpline of 1166.