Experts call for stronger support to protect youth mental health

Seminar at KU calls for balanced lifestyles, parental engagement, and awareness on harmful substances to safeguard young people

IV Report

KARACHI: Shedding light on the growing psychological challenges faced by young people, mental health experts and educators have urged interventions such as balanced lifestyles, stronger family and social engagement, and greater awareness of harmful substances.

The call came during a seminar titled “Breaking the Silence, Hearing the Youth Perspective”, organised by the Department of Psychology, University of Karachi (KU), on September 3. KU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid M. Iraqi chaired the session, which brought together leading mental health specialists, educators, and students to explore meaningful solutions.

Dr Iraqi stressed the importance of empathy and open dialogue, noting that “mutual trust and connection form the foundation for resolving youth issues effectively.” He urged parents and teachers to create safe spaces where young people feel heard and supported.

Head of Psychiatry at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) Dr Chuni Lal warned that parental disengagement in today’s fast-paced world often drives young people toward unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse or excessive social media use. “Parents matter first in terms of caregiving and nurturing a child,” he said, adding that harmful substances were pushing youth toward physical, mental, and familial breakdown.

Renowned psychiatrist Prof Dr Iqbal Afridi emphasised that “health is everything,” advocating for balanced lifestyles and stronger family and social bonds as emotional anchors in turbulent times.

KU Dean of Arts and Social Sciences Prof Dr Samina Saeed highlighted the stigma surrounding mental health, which, she said, prevents many young people from seeking help. “We must create an environment where youth feel safe to express themselves,” she remarked.

Other speakers included Prof Dr Iqtadar Taufiq of Liaquat National Hospital and Prof Dr Anila Amber Malik, who discussed the psychological effects of urbanisation and social change. Dr Malik noted that migration from rural to urban areas had weakened traditional family structures and increased anxiety among youth.

Prof Dr Zainab Bhutto of Bahria University underlined the protective value of quality family time, saying it can shield children from long-term mental health problems.

Associate Professor Dr Anil Wadhwani of JPMC drew attention to “eco-anxiety,” linking climate change, poor sleep habits, and excessive screen time with worsening youth mental health.

Photos courtesy: University of Karachi