Breaking the Barriers: A Qualitative Study of Perceived Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Services Among Pakistani Youth

Abstract

Access to mental health services among young people in Pakistan may be hindered by social stigma, lack of knowledge about mental illness, financial constraints, parental pressure from families and religion. The research explored young people's perception of the barriers that prevent them from getting mental health services in Pakistan. A qualitative research design was employed using semi-structured interviews with males and females aged between 18-25 years from various universities of Islamabad. The participants were selected through purposive quota sampling. Audio recordings of interviews were done under informed consent for privacy protection purposes. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns in participant's experiences and perceptions. There are five interrelated clusters: personal well-being and coping; social and familial factors; stigma, discrimination, and awareness; spiritual and emotional perspectives; and professional help and therapy. Family expectations, fear of being criticized, gender-based restrictions, stigma, lack of knowledge about mental health, cost of mental health services and travel costs are barriers that prevent people from identifying their own problems and seeking professional help. Religious and cultural values influenced perceptions of mental health issues, with participants recognizing spirituality as a source of comfort while expressing concerns about relying exclusively on religious practices instead of professional treatment.  Participants also acknowledged the potential value of psychological services and supportive relationships in addressing mental health difficulties.