The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has directed all medical and dental institutions across the country to implement structured mental health screening protocols in response to a growing number of suicide cases among students. The move reflects increasing concern over psychological distress in academically demanding environments.

According to officials, the screening will be conducted at two key stages: during student admissions and on an annual basis for both students and faculty. The aim is to identify mental health issues early and provide timely support through proper counselling and medical intervention.

The PMDC has also instructed institutions to establish fully functional psychiatry departments and dedicated counselling units to ensure continuous mental health support. Those identified as at risk will be referred for further evaluation and treatment through professional channels.

The directive follows several recent incidents involving student suicides, which have raised alarms about stress, harassment, and lack of support systems within educational institutions.

Authorities emphasised that safeguarding students’ mental well-being is now a priority and urged strict compliance with the new protocols. The initiative is expected to improve academic performance, provide emotional support, and help prevent further tragedies.