Accessible and affordable mental health care is an essential need, says First Lady Fazna Ahmed.

The first lady said this while speaking at the inauguration of the second Psychology Symposium and Exhibition held at the QI Campus.

Organized by Villa College, the exhibition was held to celebrate World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10.

This year’s theme revolves around 'Mental health is a universal human right.'

Taking the podium at the event, FL Fazna shed light on the pivotal role mental health care plays in fostering a healthy and productive society.

Stressing that these services must be accessible, affordable, and decentralized, the first lady touched upon the significance of ensuring that all citizens have access to appropriate mental health care, regardless of their location or financial limits.

FL Fazna noted that this approach ensures that all individuals are able to contribute to their respective communities without being swayed by unaddressed mental health issues.

She went on to shed light on the importance of preventive measures in maintaining mental health and advocated for improved efforts to recognize and address mental health issues through primary healthcare systems and educational institutions.

Further, the first lady stressed that it was important to address mental health concerns to maintain a peaceful, prosperous and productive community.

Reminding the people that they have a collective responsibility to ensure proper mental health care for all, FL Fazna said that mental well-being should be based on values of courage and empathy.

The first lady expressed hope that evidence-based treatments will continue to be widely available to those in need.