Islamabad: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMandDC) has directed all medical and dental institutions to implement structured mental health screening protocols for students and faculty.

The directive, issued on the instructions of PMandDC President Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj, comes in response to increasing concerns over cases of psychological distress and suicide among students.

According to the council, institutions are required to conduct mental health screenings at the time of admissions and on an annual basis thereafter for both students and faculty members. The use of standardized and validated assessment tools has also been emphasized.

PMandDC further directed institutions to ensure the establishment of fully functional psychiatry departments and dedicated counseling sections to provide accessible and confidential support services. Individuals identified with mental health concerns are to be referred promptly for professional evaluation and follow-up.

The council stressed that ensuring mental well-being is the responsibility of institutions and warned that strict compliance with the new guidelines must be ensured without delay.