Taskeen Public Awareness & Wellness teams recently returned from a transformative 10-day visit (9th to 19th July 2025) to the breathtaking northern regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, carried out in partnership with Aga Khan Health Service, Pakistan (AKHSP). With a shared goal of advancing mental health awareness and services, our journey was one of stories, connection, and community care.
Highlights from the Field:
Public Service Announcement (PSA):To break the silence around mental health, we shot a powerful Public Service Announcement Video featuring six prominent voices from the region. These influential figures lent their support to the cause, helping normalize conversations around mental health and dismantle stigma through culturally rooted storytelling.
Stories of Hope:
We recorded two deeply moving Stories of Hope from individuals with lived experience in Garam Chashma and Gilgit. These personal journeys of resilience are now powerful tools to inspire others across Pakistan.
Referral Process Training at Aga Khan Basic Health Centres:
The Wellness team conducted on-site training for Lady Health Visitors (LHVs) at three AKHSP-run Basic Health Centres in Garam Chashma, Sherqilla, and Skardu. The sessions focused on early identification of distress, empathetic communication, and mental health support referral mechanisms.
Referral Pathways Established:
A key outcome of the visit was the creation of a structured referral system, enabling LHVs to directly connect individuals in need of specialized mental health care with Taskeen’s professionals.
This partnership between Taskeen Health Initiative and Aga Khan Health Service, Pakistan represents a meaningful step forward in mental health outreach for underserved regions. By equipping local health workers and amplifying regional voices, we’re working toward a more inclusive, accessible, and compassionate mental health ecosystem in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.