Mohsin Nawaz calls for dedicated ‘Sports Mental Health Policy’ to strengthen Pakistan’s athletes
ISLAMABAD: Renowned long-range sport shooter and sports psychologist Mohsin Nawaz has called for a dedicated Sports Mental Health Policy in Pakistan, urging policymakers and national sports federations to make psychological preparation an integral part of athlete development.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Pakistan Global Mental Health Summit 2026, recently held at Serena Hotel, Islamabad, Nawaz welcomed the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination’s launch of the National Mental Health Policy. He stressed that its effective implementation across different sectors, including sports, would be essential to improving wellbeing and building a more resilient society.
Held under the theme “Building Climate-Resilient and Future-Ready Mental Health Systems for Children, Young People and Communities,” the summit provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of mental health among young people and competitive athletes.
Nawaz argued that physical ability alone cannot guarantee consistent performances at the highest level. Athletes must also develop concentration, emotional control, confidence and the ability to manage pressure during major competitions. He cited Pakistan’s international sporting challenges to emphasise the need for sustained psychological support alongside technical and physical training.
“Pakistan possesses immense athletic talent and raw potential. However, consistent podium performances can only be sustained when physical training is complemented by systematic mental preparation, pressure management and emotional regulation,” Nawaz said.
He noted that elite athletes regularly face intense expectations, selection uncertainty, performance anxiety and the psychological strain of injuries. Without appropriate support, these pressures can affect decision-making, coordination, recovery and long-term participation in sport.
Nawaz also raised concerns about the lack of dedicated mental health professionals within Pakistan’s sports system. While teams commonly rely on physical trainers and physiotherapists, he said psychological support should receive comparable attention through qualified sports psychologists and structured mental conditioning programmes.
He urged sports authorities to establish support systems that protect athletes’ wellbeing, particularly during selection processes, training camps, injury rehabilitation and major international events. In his view, mental preparation should be continuous rather than introduced only when a player experiences difficulties.
Drawing on his experience as Pakistan’s first official sports psychologist at the 6th World Nomad Games 2026, Nawaz advocated a coordinated approach involving sports federations, coaches, medical teams and policymakers. He also highlighted the wider public impact of athletes discussing mental health openly, helping challenge stigma and encourage people to seek support.
A recipient of the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz and a Lifetime Achievement Award, Nawaz is also an accomplished F-Class long-range shooter. Through his association with HawkSmith Gun & Sporting Club and international sporting brands, he supports initiatives aimed at modernising shooting facilities and promoting structured sports participation among young Pakistanis.
Nawaz called on relevant authorities to translate the momentum of the national summit into a practical sports mental health roadmap, ensuring that Pakistan’s athletes receive the psychological resources needed to compete confidently, protect their wellbeing and fulfil their potential on the international stage.
