History Of Pur Umeed Zindagi Program 

Pur Umeed Zindagi (PUZ) was launched in 2018 under the Community Health Directorate (CHD) of Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN) as a response to the growing need for accessible mental health and addiction services in Pakistan. The program began with 4 sites, focusing on early identification of mental health concerns, evidence-based interventions, and ethical clinical practices.

Over time, PUZ adopted the WHO Task Shifting Model, training Lay Counselors to provide counseling for anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9), and quality of life (MANSA) under the supervision of qualified psychologists. This approach allowed PUZ to deliver mental health support at the community level, making services more inclusive and accessible.

By 2025, PUZ had expanded to 4 regions—Karachi, Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab—covering 17 sites and building a network of 34 Mental Health Officers (MHOs). These MHOs conduct screenings, enrollment, and baseline counseling for moderate cases, while severe cases are referred to psychologists, who also conduct clinics and serve as regional supervisors.

PUZ has also prioritized capacity building through structured training programs:

• Initial training for new MHOs.

• Refresher trainings every six months.

• Master Trainers ensure continuous professional development and maintain high standards of care.

Today, PUZ stands as a trusted, free-of-cost mental health program, impacting thousands of individuals and communities across Pakistan through screening, counseling, therapy, follow-ups, and awareness sessions.