Islamabad : April 29, 2026: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) has issued directives to all medical and dental institutions emphasizing the critical importance of promoting and safeguarding the mental health of students and faculty.
PM&DC has highlighted the need for proactive measures to identify and address mental health concerns, recognizing that academic environments in medical and dental colleges are intellectually rigorous and often psychologically demanding
On the directions of the President,
PM&DC Prof.Dr.Rizwan Taj, directive has been issued in response to growing concerns over the increasing incidence of suicide and severe psychological distress among students. Keeping in view all institutions have been directed to implement structured mental health screening protocols. Regular mental health screening, along with easy-to-access and well-organized counseling services, will help improve academic performance, support career growth, and greatly improve the overall well-being of future healthcare professionals.
These screenings are directed to be conducted at two key stages, first at the time of student admissions, to identify any pre-existing concerns and provide early support. Additionally, on an annual basis, for undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as faculty, we aim to promote psychological well-being throughout their academic and professional journey. Institutions have been advised to utilize standardized and validated assessment tools.
PM&DC has also directed institutions to promptly refer any student or faculty member identified through these screenings as requiring further evaluation or support to the Department of Psychiatry for comprehensive assessment, appropriate management, and ongoing follow-up.
Furthermore, in accordance with PM&DC standards, all institutions have to establish and maintain a fully functional Department of Psychiatry, along with a dedicated Counseling Section, to ensure accessible and continuous mental health support services.
This unit must be adequately staffed and appropriately equipped to deliver confidential psychological support, professional guidance, and timely intervention services.
The responsibility for the prevention and management of psychological distress among students and faculty rests with the institutions.
The implementation of systematic mental health screening, coupled with accessible and well-structured counseling services, is expected to enhance academic performance, support professional development, and significantly improve the overall well-being of future healthcare professionals.
All institutions are hereby directed to ensure strict compliance with these requirements and to undertake prompt and effective measures for their implementation. This matter must be treated as a priority and executed without delay.
