Obituary: Dr Syed Haroon Ahmed — pioneer in psychiatry and mental health advocacy

Professor Syed Haroon Ahmed, who breathed his last on Thursday at the age of 92, was a pioneer in psychiatry, a dedicated mentor, and a tireless advocate for mental health.

Born in 1931 in the historic city of Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, he embarked on his eternal journey on April 3, 2025, after a prolonged illness following a post-COVID stroke.

He leaves behind his beloved family, dear friends, countless well-wishers, and an enduring legacy that transformed psychiatric care in Pakistan.

From an early age, Professor Haroon was committed to progressive thought and social change. In 1950, he founded the Democratic Students Federation, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to advocacy. After earning his MBBS in 1953, he pursued advanced psychiatric training at Maudsley Hospital, UK.

Upon returning to Pakistan, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern psychiatry. As a senior psychiatrist at Jinnah Hospital’s Ward 20, he contributed significantly to the development of psychiatric care.

He co-founded the Pakistan Psychiatric Society in 1972 and, earlier in 1965, established the Pakistan Association for Mental Health (PAMH) milestone that enabled him to extend care to those most in need.

In 1995, PAMH launched the Institute of Behavioural Sciences (IBS) in Karachi, a premier psychiatric facility offering state-of-the-art treatment and academic training. Professor Haroon was also a pioneer of community psychiatry, championing the concept with the slogan: “Mental Health at the Doorstep of the Community.”

Beyond his contributions to mental health, he was a fervent advocate for peace and human rights. As president of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War, he was one of the few courageous voices to campaign against Pakistan’s nuclear armament in 1998.

His dedication to human rights was further reflected in his long-standing association with the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP).

One of his most significant contributions was in mental health law reform. Recognising the outdated nature of Pakistan’s psychiatric legislation, he spearheaded efforts to replace the archaic Lunacy Act 1912 . His perseverance led to the passage of the Sindh Mental Health Act of 2013, the first law in Pakistan to provide safeguards for individuals with psychiatric illnesses, including those accused under blasphemy laws. His relentless advocacy ensured its enactment, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s legal framework.

Professor Haroon is survived by his devoted wife, Anis Haroon, his children, Nadia, Adnan, and Irfan, and a vast network of friends, disciples, mentees, and psychiatrists who continue his mission in Pakistan and across the world.

His life was a testament to service, compassion, and justice. While his absence leaves an irreplaceable void, his legacy will continue to illuminate the path for generations to come.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

— Author is president of Pakistan Association for Mental Health