![Custom Text](https://bolojawan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/New-top-banner-add-04.jpg")
While discussing the dire state of education in Pakistan, what makes the headlines are the 25.3 million out-of-school children or the lack of basic facilities in many schools of the country. What is rarely discussed, but should be, is the emotional and psychological state of the learners. Mental health shapes a student’s ability to concentrate, absorb new ideas, manage stress, and stay engaged. Yet, schools and universities overlook this foundational aspect of learning, leaving students to navigate academic pressures without the psycho-emotional support they need to thrive. Recent evidence shows that nearly 43% of university students in Pakistan experience depressive symptoms, highlighting how urgent it is for schools to take mental health seriously (Ahmed et al., 2021).
Mental Health and Learning: Two Sides of the Same Coin
Episode 8 of Season 4 of Let’s Talk Education, explored the integral role of mental health in education with Dr. Sobia Masood, Head of the Department of Psychology at Rawalpindi Women University. Dr. Sobia, being a seasoned educator and mental health professional, emphasised how students’ psychological well-being influences every aspect of their lives, including learning.
“Education cannot exist in isolation from mental health. A student under stress, facing anxiety, or struggling with depression cannot concentrate, retain information, or actively participate in class,”
– Dr. Sobia Masood
The discussion revealed that mental health issues often manifest in absenteeism, poor academic performance, and disengagement. Unfortunately, these symptoms are frequently misinterpreted as lack of effort or discipline. Dr. Sobia emphasizes that supportive environments, early identification, and structured interventions are key to preventing these outcomes.
Generational Awareness and the New Student Mindset
Unlike older generations, Gen Z and Gen Alpha are more aware of their mental health. Students today can identify stressors and are more likely to seek support if safe spaces exist. However, many parents, teachers, and policymakers still underestimate the importance of mental health, dismissing challenges as trivial or “tantrums.”
“Even if students have awareness, without accessible support structures, the knowledge alone is insufficient. Schools and families must provide actionable solutions,”
– Dr. Sobia Masood
The gap between awareness and intervention creates a critical risk. Students may know something is wrong but lack guidance on managing it, leading to long-term academic and personal consequences.
Mental Health as an Afterthought in Schools
Despite increasing awareness, many schools and universities remain ill-equipped to address mental health challenges. Counselling centers are rare, often underfunded, and staffed by overworked faculty members. Even where resources exist, they frequently fail to provide structured, evidence-based interventions.
“Half of depression and anxiety can be mitigated simply by providing safe spaces and attentive listening. Small, well-planned initiatives can make a profound difference,”
– Dr. Sobia Masood
The lack of infrastructure is compounded by societal stigma. Hence, students may feel hesitant to discuss mental health issues, fearing judgment from peers, educators, or family members. Addressing this requires a cultural shift alongside policy change.
Policy and Systemic Gaps
Systemic challenges exacerbate the situation. Government schools often lack both awareness and funds to provide counselling services, while even private institutions may treat mental health as a secondary concern. Dr Sobia stresses that mental health is a fundamental human right, crucial for learning, creativity, and overall growth.
“Without prioritizing mental health, education remains incomplete. Children cannot reach their potential academically or socially unless their psychological well-being is safeguarded,”
– Dr. Sobia Masood
The Way Forward: Holistic Education through Mental Health
Dr. Sobia also advocates for broader initiatives such as mental health awareness campaigns, stress management workshops, and early intervention programs. When combined, these strategies empower students to thrive academically while maintaining emotional balance.
For parents, educators, and policymakers alike, the message is clear: mental health is not a luxury, it is the foundation of holistic education. Recognizing this link ensures students are not only academically proficient but emotionally resilient, socially competent, and fully equipped to succeed in life.
Watch the full episode now!
