In this Q & A, Dr. Shireen Bhamani shares insights into her background, the specific mental health challenges she aims to tackle, and her vision for leveraging the fellowship to influence mental health policy and practice, not only in Pakistan but globally. Her commitment to promoting resilience and improving mental health outcomes among adolescents underscores her aspiration to bring about meaningful change through evidence-based research and community engagement.

1. Can you tell us about your background and the journey that led you to apply for this prestigious fellowship?

I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2004 from the AKU School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan, followed by a Master of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from the AKU Medical College. With a quest for learning and a passion for higher education, I obtained a PhD in Health Sciences from Ghent University, Belgium in 2023.

My career in nursing education and practice gradually evolved into a specialization in mental health for women and children, shaped by my experience at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, and as a community health nurse in urban squatter settlements. These roles provided firsthand insight into the complex health challenges faced by individuals, particularly women and adolescents in Pakistan.

I am excited and humbled to be the first nurse from Pakistan selected for this joint fellowship between Harvard University and AKU, and I look forward to making a difference for women and children in Pakistan.

2. What specific mental health challenges in Pakistan do you hope to address through your research during this fellowship?

My public health experience has highlighted profound disparities in mental health care between high-income and low- and middle-income countries. Witnessing limited access to mental health services, insufficient infrastructure, pervasive stigma, and devastating consequences for individuals and communities deeply impacted me. Particularly concerning adolescents, significant stressors like academic pressure, violence, bullying, parental expectations, and socio-economic challenges can lead to severe mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicide.

During this fellowship, I aim to start with school-going children, involving their parents and teachers to create a supportive network that fosters resilience and well-being. Drawing on my experience with resilience-building interventions among women, I believe such programs can equip adolescents with problem-solving skills, emotional regulation, and a positive outlook which is crucial for managing challenges.

3. How will you overcome research challenges and maintain resilience during your time at both Harvard and AKU?

Balancing demands and expectations at both Harvard and AKU will be challenging, especially being away from Pakistan. However, I am confident in handling these challenges by practicing resilience-building skills, focusing on long-term goals, self-care, staying connected with family and friends, nurturing my spiritual and mental health, getting involved in the local community, and embracing flexibility and adaptability.

Access to world-class resources and mentorship at Harvard, along with support from AKU and my seniors in the field, will be instrumental in overcoming research challenges and broadening my academic perspectives.

4. What are some ways you plan to help improve mental health for vulnerable populations in Pakistan and other low- and middle-income countries?

My approach involves a multifaceted strategy to promote resilience and improve mental health among vulnerable populations, especially adolescents. Starting at the grassroots level, I will develop and implement evidence-based resilience-building interventions tailored to the unique needs of adolescents, considering cultural and social factors. Involving parents, teachers, and school leaders will create a supportive school and home environment that fosters openness and strong support systems. Collaborating with international organizations will allow me to share best practices and extend the impact of my work to other LMICs.

5. How do you envision applying your findings and experiences from this fellowship to influence mental health policy or practice in Pakistan and beyond?

I am hopeful that this fellowship will enhance my competencies to address mental health issues comprehensively and structurally, preparing me to bring impactful change to the Pakistani population. My goal is to advocate for integrating mental health services into primary health care and school health programs, improving accessibility of mental health care—a pressing need today.

By publishing and disseminating my research findings in high-impact journals and presenting at international conferences, I aim to influence mental health policies in Pakistan and globally. I envision establishing a Center of Resilience in Pakistan, making mental health and well-being accessible to underprivileged women and children lacking awareness of mental health.