CHALLENGES OF USE OF ICD 11 IN THE MENTAL HEALTH SCENE OF PAKISTAN

The implementation of the ICD-11 classification system in Pakistan's mental health services presents both challenges and opportunities for improving psychiatric diagnosis and care.There is global transitioning from ICD-10 to ICD-11 underway.Pakistan's mental health landscape is a complex mix of advanced and outdated practices.Public sector facilities vary from under-resourced institutions to emerging teaching hospitals, while private sector services range from high-quality clinics to poorly regulated, substandard care centers.Despite the availability of modern facilities, the adoption of disease classification such as ICD-11 remains virtually nonexistent; this fact results in diagnostic inconsistency and thus limited evidence-based practices.The ICD-11 compared to ICD-10 has several innovations, including a lifespan approach, enhanced cultural sensitivity, and greater integration of digital tools, which can significantly benefit clinical practice and research.However, concerns about cultural relevance and the adequacy of training in Pakistan persist, with a significant portion of the psychiatric community expressing uncertainty about its implementation.This paper discusses the historical development of psychiatric nosology, the features of ICD-11, and the unique challenges faced by mental health professionals in Pakistan.It also advocates an increased awareness, critique, and practical adoption of ICD-11 in Pakistan to enhance the quality of mental health care and research.