PESHAWAR, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 27th Apr, 2026) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has strengthened its mental healthcare system by becoming the first province in the country to ensure the appointment of qualified psychologists in all District Headquarters (DHQ) hospitals.
According to official sources, the initiative is being implemented under the leadership of Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Khan Afridi, with a focus on improving access to mental health services across the province. The step aims to address gaps in psychological care at the district level.
Officials said the availability of trained psychologists will enable timely diagnosis and treatment of common conditions such as depression and anxiety, which often go untreated due to stigma and lack of facilities. Patients will now have easier access to services closer to their homes.
Health experts have termed the initiative an important development, noting that it could serve as a model for other provinces. The government reiterated its commitment to providing accessible and quality healthcare services to the public.
