Ayesha Omar calls for greater mental health support after Peshawar grave desecration case

Actor Ayesha Omar has called for greater access to mental health support in Pakistan following reports of a 19-year-old man being arrested in Peshawar for allegedly exhuming and desecrating the bodies of deceased girls. In an Instagram Story, Omar shared a report about the disturbing incident and used it to highlight what she described as a wider need to address psychological trauma and emotional wellbeing across society. “The entire nation of Pakistan needs immediate psychiatric and psychological therapy at varying degrees,” she wrote, adding that she included herself because of “all the PTSD and traumas” she had experienced. Omar also called for mental health professionals to be made more accessible in educational institutions and workplaces. “I think it should [be] mandatory in schools and colleges and workplaces. We need experts coming in, instead of financial aid,” she said. “Give us therapy. Not dollars.” Screengrab: ayesha.m.omar/Instagram Her comments came after police in Peshawar arrested a 19-year-old Afghan national who was allegedly caught while exhuming the body of a girl from a grave in the Shaikhan area. According to police, the suspect had allegedly dug up several other graves containing the bodies of girls. Authorities said investigations into the case were continuing. The disturbing reports prompted concern and condemnation on social media, while Omar’s response shifted the conversation towards the psychological impact of violence and trauma and the need for greater access to mental healthcare. Omar has previously spoken publicly about mental health and emotional wellbeing. She has discussed the importance of acknowledging emotional vulnerability and working on one’s emotional reactions, while also taking part in conversations aimed at increasing awareness around mental health. The actor has also spoken about her own experiences with stress and trust, saying she had struggled with overthinking and stress and describing healing as an ongoing process. Her latest remarks have once again brought mental health into the spotlight, particularly the question of whether schools, colleges and workplaces should provide greater access to qualified psychological professionals.