2nd International Psychosocial and Psychiatric Rehabilitation Conference in Karachi

The two-day event brought together policymakers

mental health leaders, and global experts

to discuss groundbreaking approaches

Staff Reporter

Karachi: Karwan-e-Hayat, Pakistan’s leading mental healthcare institute, successfully hosted the 2nd International Psychosocial and Psychiatric Rehabilitation Conference (PPRC’24) on December 20-21, 2024, at a prominent hotel in Karachi. Under the theme “Mental Health in the New Millennium,” the two-day event brought together policymakers, mental health leaders, and global experts to discuss groundbreaking approaches to psychosocial and psychiatric rehabilitation.

Keynote Speeches and Expert Discussions

The conference opened with a distinguished inaugural session led by Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Provincial Minister for Health and Population Welfare, who served as the Chief Guest. Prominent figures such as Prof. Khalid A. Mufti, Patron of the event, and Prof. Dr. Iqbal Afridi, Keynote Speaker, delivered insightful addresses, setting the tone for transformative discussions.

Keynote addresses included:

• Dr. M. Zeshan on empowering parents to address digital addiction in children and teens.
• Dr. Nasim Chaudhry on integrated and affordable mental healthcare solutions.
• Dr. Uzma Ali on strategies to prevent substance abuse among youth.

Groundbreaking Sessions

PPRC’24 covered diverse mental health topics through critical sessions and workshops:

• Dr. Qudsia Tariq raised awareness about domestic violence and its psychological impact.
• Dr. Usama Bin Zubair discussed innovative approaches to resistant mental illnesses.
• Sessions on Alzheimer’s management, ADHD in children, and caregiver support highlighted the conference’s focus on holistic care.

Focus on “5S Themes”

The conference introduced the “5S Themes” by Dr. Minhaj Qidwai, Chairman of the Organizing Committee. These themes—Systems, State, Society, Self, and Spirituality—framed discussions on policy, treatment advancements, self-care trends, and spirituality’s role in rehabilitation.

Visionary Leadership

Mohammad Salim, Chairman of Karwan-e-Hayat, emphasized the significance of collaboration and innovation. He remarked, “This conference serves as a platform to share knowledge, network, and advocate for evidence-based strategies that restore hope and rebuild lives.”

The event featured panelists from Pakistan, USA, Canada, UK, and beyond, fostering global collaboration and actionable outcomes for mental healthcare.

Milestone Achievement

PPRC’24 follows Karwan-e-Hayat’s achievement of securing the Sindh Health Care Commission (SHCC) license, validating its dedication to quality mental health services. This milestone reinforces the institute’s mission to provide world-class care, impactful awareness programs, and community outreach.