Karachi, 15 Oct 2023: In a bid to address the pressing mental health challenges faced by Pakistan’s youth, Synapse – Pakistan Neuroscience Institute has teamed up with Aga Khan University’s Brain and Mind Institute (BMI), the National Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA), and the British Asian Trust. The collaborative effort aimed to prioritize mental wellbeing through a unique event called Jashn e Nur: Celebrating the Light Within, focusing on positive behaviours, self-care, and understanding mental health as a fundamental human right.
The event offered a blend of panel discussions, poem segments, policy dialogues, and fireside chats, alongside recreational activities such as art therapy, meditation, short films, storytelling, and creative expression walls. Jashn e Nur was geared towards providing a transformative experience for the youth, celebrating their inner light, and empowering them to express themselves without fear of societal stigmas.
Given that approximately 20 million individuals in Pakistan grapple with some form of mental health condition, and the alarming 35% prevalence rate of adolescent mental disorders in the country, such initiatives are vital. This festival, backed by all involved organizations, underscores their commitment to mental health advocacy, especially for the nation’s youth.
Ms. Falak Madhani, Implementation Scientist at BMI, in her opening address, emphasized the necessity of crafting locally relevant models of mental health wellness for Pakistan’s diverse population. Throughout the event, experienced professionals, including Ms. Namra Khalid, Mr. Ahmed Mian, Ms. Nusser Sayeed, and Dr. Sana Siddiqui, took part in various discussions and activities.
Dr. Ayesha Mian underscored the urgency of shifting the narrative from mental illness to mental wellness, advocating for a comprehensive national mental health policy that integrates mental health into various sectors.
The festival, held at NAPA’s courtyard, featured engaging activities, art displays, creative expression walls, and food stalls, with notable contributions from sponsors such as Tapal Tea Pvt. LTD, British Asian Trust, Friends of Synapse, Alfalah Investment, and Pakistan Stock Exchange. Additionally, several organizations, including Savaira, Center of Inclusive Care, and Aahung, showcased their ongoing efforts in mental health advocacy.
Jashn-e-Nur served as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health, emphasizing the need to celebrate and accept oneself as a pillar of positive mental health.