Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has become the first province in Pakistan to formally appoint psychologists in all district headquarters (DHQ) hospitals, marking a major step toward improving mental healthcare at the district level. According to the health department, 32 psychologists have been deployed across the province.
The initiative aims to improve early diagnosis, treatment, and referral of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Officials say this step will help reduce pressure on major tertiary care hospitals by strengthening mental health services at local facilities.
Under the new system, mental health desks are being established in DHQ hospitals to provide counselling, screening, and confidential support, especially for women and young people. These desks will also connect basic health units with specialized psychiatric services.
Authorities have also introduced training programs for healthcare staff and electronic referral systems to improve coordination between hospitals. The move is part of a broader Rs32 billion health sector revamping project designed to upgrade hospital infrastructure and services across KP.
Officials believe this development will significantly improve healthcare accessibility and mental health awareness across the province, especially in conflict-affected districts.
