Sapna Zameer
Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing concerns of today’s world, and Pakistan remains among the most vulnerable countries. The country’s particularly strong monsoon season, which began on June 26, has brought widespread devastation. By September 12, 2025, heavy rains and flash floods had resulted in 946 deaths, including 255 children, and 1,062 injuries, of which 320 were children.
In Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), the impact has been especially severe. Glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) caused 41 deaths, 52 injuries, and damage to 1,253 homes, while valleys such as Diamer and Ghizer were cut off due to landslides. Owing to its geographical location, GB faces recurring disasters almost every year. Although the region contributes little to climate change, it suffers disproportionately because of its vast glaciers and towering peaks. Each year, communities lose lives, homes, land, and savings, forcing them to migrate and rebuild their lives from scratch.
For survivors, these disasters bring not only physical and financial losses but also deep psychological scars. Families forced into refugee tents face inferiority complexes, stress, and trauma. Anxiety, sleeplessness, and hopelessness are common among victims who have witnessed such destruction. Despite substantial aid provided by the government, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), and private organizations, mental health remains largely ignored.
The example of Attabad Lake victims is a stark reminder. Even after 14 years, many displaced families continue to struggle with unaddressed mental health challenges. Their experience underscores the fact that rebuilding lives requires more than financial or material assistance, it requires mental strength.
Experts argue that mental health must be treated as a first priority in disaster response. Physical aid and infrastructure support can help communities survive, but only mentally strong individuals can truly rebuild their lives. Equal attention must therefore be given to psychological rehabilitation.
There is an urgent need for systematic measures, including:
- Deploying trained psychologists in disaster-hit areas,
- Establishing community-based counseling and trauma support programs, and
- Conducting mental health trainings to equip survivors with coping strategies.
Both individuals and organizations must step forward to fill this gap, while government institutions should ensure that mental health care is integrated into relief and recovery frameworks. Only then can affected communities regain the strength to stand on their feet again.
Gilgit-Baltistan’s plight highlights a critical lesson for Pakistan: climate resilience is not limited to infrastructure and economic recovery,it must also address the invisible wounds of disaster. Without prioritizing mental health, true rehabilitation will remain incomplete.
