The Importance Workplace Mental Health Screening in Pakistan

In today’s fast-paced and high-pressure work environment, mental health screening is no longer a luxury — it is a necessity. In Pakistan, where conversations around mental health are still developing, workplaces must evolve to protect not just their productivity, but the well-being of their employees. Integrating mental health screening into recruitment and routine employee health protocols is an essential step forward.

Why Mental Health Screening Matters in the Workplace

1. Employee Well-being Directly Affects Productivity
   Employees facing untreated anxiety, depression, or stress-related conditions are more likely to experience burnout, absenteeism, and decreased performance. A simple mental health assessment during onboarding or at regular intervals can help identify issues early and support employees through timely interventions.

2. Creating a Safer, More Supportive Work Environment
   A workplace that prioritizes mental health reduces stigma and fosters a culture of openness and support. This not only improves morale but also encourages loyalty and retention — both major challenges in Pakistani organizations.

3. Know Who You Are Hiring: Avoid Legal and Operational Risks
   One of the most overlooked yet critical benefits of mental health screening is risk mitigation. Hiring someone without a clear understanding of their mental health history — especially for roles involving high stress, sensitive information, or client interaction — can lead to legal complications, internal conflict, and even reputational damage.

   Know who is working for you — and who you are hiring. A comprehensive mental health screening can prevent future challenges by identifying potential red flags and ensuring the candidate is fit for the role both mentally and emotionally.

4. Compliance with Evolving Legal and HR Standards
   While Pakistan’s labor laws are gradually catching up with global standards, there is a growing expectation — especially in corporate and multinational settings — to align with global best practices regarding employee mental health. Proactively screening and supporting mental wellness helps organizations remain ahead of regulatory changes and labor compliance risks.

5. Cost-Effective in the Long Run
   Investing in mental health saves money. According to global studies, every rupee spent on mental health care yields a fourfold return in improved health and productivity. Pakistani companies that fail to address workplace mental health often end up paying more in healthcare costs, insurance claims, and turnover-related expenses.

What Can Employers Do?

• Incorporate Mental Health Screening in Recruitment
  Use psychometric evaluations and professional mental health assessments during the hiring process, particularly for high-stakes roles.

• Offer Regular Mental Health Check-ups
  Just like physical health screenings, mental health evaluations should be part of routine employee health check-ups.

• Engage a Licensed Clinical Psychologist or Partner with a Clinic
  Collaborate with certified professionals to ensure ethical, confidential, and scientifically-backed assessments.

• Provide Access to Counseling and Support Services
  Offer employee assistance programs (EAPs), therapy referrals, or in-house counseling for ongoing support.

Preventable Workplace Incidents in Pakistan due to Mental Health Issues.

1. Suicide Surge Among Lahore Police Officers (2025) In early 2025, Lahore witnessed a disturbing rise in suicides, including that of a 40-year-old police constable who took his own life using his service weapon. This incident highlighted the immense psychological pressure faced by law enforcement personnel and underscored the need for mental health support within the force. (Source: The Express Tribune)

2. Khushab, Punjab (November 2020): A security guard at the National Bank of Pakistan's Quaidabad branch fatally shot the bank manager, Malik Imran Hanif, alleging blasphemy as the motive. However, investigations suggested that the act stemmed from personal enmity, as the two had ongoing disputes. The incident highlights how personal grievances, if unaddressed, can escalate to violence, sometimes under the guise of sensitive allegations. (Source: Geo News+2Dawn+2INCPak+2INCPak+1Geo News+1)

3. Faisalabad, Punjab (October 2021): Mansoor Ali, a bank manager, shot and killed his female colleague, Alia Javed, claiming she was blackmailing him with private videos. Eyewitnesses reported a verbal altercation preceding the shooting. The incident underscores the importance of addressing interpersonal conflicts and the potential consequences of unaddressed workplace tensions. (Source: ProPakistani+2The Friday Times+2ARY NEWS+2)

4. Mirpurkhas, Sindh (December 2021): Ghulam Rasool, a security guard at United Bank Limited, shot and injured the bank manager, Abdul Wahab Ghori, during a dispute over salary payments. Subsequently, Rasool committed suicide. This tragic event emphasizes the need for effective communication channels and mental health support for employees facing financial and emotional stress. (Source Geo News+2Dawn+2Dawn+2)

5. Halima Rafiq – Cricketer’s Tragic End (2014) Halima Rafiq, a teenage cricketer from Multan, accused senior officials of the Multan Cricket Club of sexual harassment. After facing threats and a defamation lawsuit, she tragically ended her life by ingesting acid. Her death spotlighted the lack of support for victims of harassment in sports institutions. Wikipedia

6. Lahore, Punjab (July 2015): An individual, identified as a cashier at a government college, opened fire inside a private bank, killing three employees, including the bank manager. The attack was reportedly motivated by personal rivalry, highlighting the dangers of unresolved personal conflicts spilling into the workplace. (Source: The News International+2Daily Pakistan English News+2Geo News+2)

7. Tahir’s Struggle with Bipolar Disorder in a Multinational Firm Tahir, a mechanical engineer, began experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, leading to prolonged absences from work. Lacking adequate support from his employer, he eventually resigned. His story underscores the challenges employees face when dealing with mental health issues in unsupportive workplace environments. (Source: The Express Tribune)

Final Thoughts

Mental health is not just a personal issue — it's a workplace issue. By embracing mental health screening as part of standard HR practice, Pakistani organizations can protect their workforce, improve operational stability, and safeguard against legal and reputational risks.

Mental wellness starts with awareness. Know who is working for you — not just on paper, but in mind and spirit.

Book a Workplace Mental Health Assessment Today!

If you’re an employer in Pakistan looking to implement ethical and confidential mental health screening at your workplace, SOCH Clinics offer customized solutions for hiring, employee assessments, and on-site counseling.