TikTok, the global social media platform, is taking a leading role in advancing awareness about mental health, with a particular focus on Pakistan’s dynamic community. On World Mental Health Day and beyond, TikTok is applauding the resilience and bravery of its users, underlining the message that prioritizing mental well-being makes us ‘Stronger Together,’ according to a press release.
The TikTok community in Pakistan is challenging the stigma surrounding mental health by sharing impactful personal stories and valuable resources. TikTok has collaborated with mission-driven organizations worldwide and notably sponsored the Rare Impact Fund Benefit with a generous $250,000 donation, which successfully raised funds and underscored the significance of expanding access to mental health services and education for young people worldwide. A global in-app survey has shown that 63% of Pakistani TikTok users feel a sense of belonging on the platform, aligning with global sentiment.
Throughout October, TikTok is inviting its global community to engage in the #MentalHealthAwareness: ‘Stronger Together’ campaign, encouraging users to share their stories and well-being journeys. Globally, related hashtags such as #MentalHealth, #SelfCare, and #MentalHealthAwareness have collectively garnered billions of views. In Pakistan, hashtags like #MentalHealth, #MentalHealthAwareness, and #DigitalHifazat have received 3.1+ billion, 1.9+ billion, and 194+ million views, respectively, to date.
TikTok is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive community, recognizing the importance of mental health. They aim to provide a space where users can seek support, share their experiences, and access resources. The message is clear: ‘We are ‘Stronger Together,’ and TikTok invites everyone to join in promoting #MentalHealthAwareness. In partnership with Ola Doc and Digital Rights Foundation, TikTok has curated year-round helplines accessible on its platform in Pakistan, available at the new Mental Health Awareness hub, serving as a digital wellness resource center.
Furthermore, TikTok is working closely with creators and organizations such as Zindagi Trust, Shifa International, House of Wellness, and others to raise awareness about mental health, discussing ways to combat depression and ensure online safety. Dr. Yasir Masood Afaq, Clinical Psychologist and Founder of House of Wellness, stated, ‘TikTok is playing a crucial role in raising awareness about mental health.
TikTok’s extensive outreach will significantly contribute to establishing a supportive mental health ecosystem.’ As part of this initiative, DASTAK Women’s Rights and Awareness Foundation has found TikTok to be a fresh and creative channel for raising awareness and educating users about critical mental health issues and sexual and gender-based violence, helping to break societal stigma and address these interconnections more profoundly.
Hira Amjad, Executive Director of DASTAK Women Rights and Awareness Foundation, commented, ‘TikTok has emerged as a powerful platform for promoting mental health awareness, with its commitment to fostering a supportive community. We look forward to nurturing this partnership for a sustainable and violence-free Pakistan.'”
