MENTAL HEALTH: Depression, anxiety and emotional exhaustion have become widespread, yet conversations around mental wellbeing remain limited due to deep-rooted social stigma. The pressure to excel academically, financial insecurity, and constant comparisons have created an environment of never-ending stress. Young people tend to often find themselves overwhelmed, but hesitate to seek help for fear of being misunderstood or judged. Unfortunately, mental health services in educational institutions are nearly non-existent, and trained counsellors remain a rarity. Schools, universities and workplaces should appoint qualified counsellors and introduce awareness programmes promoting psychological resilience. Moreover, national campaigns can help dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health therapy and emotional expression.

Nouman Mazhar Butt
Fatehjang

THE LEGAL CULTURE: This is with reference to the article ‘Litigants non grata’ (Nov 3). In Pakistan, prosecutors work under the influence of the executive branch, making them vulnerable to political pressure. Without proper in-dependence, the idea of fair and impartial prosecution will remain out of reach. The state itself often behaves like a vexatious litigant, filing unnecessary appeals and refusing to accept lawful decisions. This practice adds hundreds of pointless cases to an already overburdened system. What Pakistan needs at the moment is real institutional reforms which should include more independence for prosecutors, stronger judicial powers to stop frivolous cases, and a change in legal culture that values resolution over delay.

Tipu Saeed Khan
Karachi

NEW YORK CITY MAYOR: Zohran Mamdani’s election as the mayor of New York City (NYC) makes him the first Muslim and the first South Asian to hold that office. He is the first person born outside the United States to be elected mayor. His election is a powerful testament to the inclusivity and democratic values.

Aqsa Shoaib
Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 17th, 2025