Punjab launches province-wide mental health counseling service via Helpline 15

Punjab Safe City Authority launches round-the-clock mental health counseling service to prevent suicides

LAHORE: In a major step toward strengthening mental health support across Punjab, the Punjab Safe City Authority has launched a dedicated mental health counseling service on Emergency Helpline 15, enabling citizens to receive immediate psychological assistance during emotional distress.

The initiative has been launched on the special instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, with the aim of providing timely support to individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts.

Under the new facility, citizens can dial 15 and press 7 to connect instantly with trained mental health professionals. According to a Safe City spokesperson, callers are linked through a conference call to qualified and specialized psychologists, ensuring prompt and confidential counseling at critical moments.

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High success rate in suicide prevention

Official data revealed that during 2025, the Safe City Emergency Helpline received 2,327 calls related to suicide attempts or severe psychological distress. Through immediate counseling, expert psychological intervention, and timely police assistance where required, 2,269 individuals were successfully prevented from committing suicide, reflecting a 98 percent success rate.

The spokesperson said timely professional counseling has proven to be a decisive factor in saving precious human lives, highlighting the growing importance of accessible mental health services.

Who is calling and why

According to the data, 56 percent of callers were men, while 44 percent were women. The leading cause of suicidal tendencies was identified as domestic disputes, with 48 percent of calls linked to marital conflicts and family-related issues.

Mental health experts emphasize that early intervention and open access to counseling can significantly reduce the risk of self-harm, particularly during periods of emotional crisis.

Confidential, accessible, and life-saving support

The Safe City spokesperson urged the public not to delay seeking help in cases of mental stress or suicidal ideation, stressing that all calls are handled with strict confidentiality and the identities of callers are fully protected.

“The Safe City Emergency Helpline 15 continues to play a vital role in providing timely psychological assistance and protecting valuable human lives across Punjab,” the spokesperson said.

Healthcare professionals have welcomed the initiative, calling it a critical step toward normalizing mental health support and ensuring that help is available when it is needed most.

Stay informed, stay healthy!

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