Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government's commitment to improving mental health services, eliminating social stigma and ensuring timely treatment for people facing psychological challenges.

In his message ahead of World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10, the prime minister said there could be no health without mental health. He stressed the importance of listening to people with lived experience and incorporating their perspectives into policies and services.

Shehbaz Sharif said mental health was essential for the healthy development of young people and enabling them to realise their full potential. He called for treating mental health conditions with the same acceptance as physical illnesses.

The prime minister said the government was working on Pakistan's National Mental Health Policy 2026-35 to promote accessible, equitable and rights-based mental health services.

He said efforts were underway, in collaboration with provincial governments and relevant stakeholders, to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare facilities, educational institutions and community-based platforms.

He urged citizens to help build a society where people could discuss mental health openly without fear, stigma or embarrassment.