Advancing mental health and public health through evidence and action
The Global Institute of Human Development (GIHD) is a not-for-profit mental health and public health research institute in Islamabad, Pakistan. We generate evidence, build capacity, influence policy, and deliver community-based mental health services to improve the wellbeing of children, young people, families, and communities.
About GIHD
GIHD brings together research, education, policy, and community-based services to strengthen mental health systems and improve health outcomes in Pakistan and beyond.
We conduct high-quality research, offer accredited education and training programmes, support policy and systems change, and provide mental health services in communities, schools, and workplaces.
Research & Publications
GIHD conducts research that addresses critical mental health and public health challenges in Pakistan and other low- and middle-income settings. Our work spans discovery, implementation, and translational research, with a focus on generating evidence that can inform practice, programmes, and policy.
Our research focuses on mental health of children and young people, community and school-based mental health, digital mental health and innovation, mental health systems and policy, and public health and population wellbeing.
Education
We provide accredited and recognised academic programmes that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to pursue careers in mental health and public health. Our education programmes combine evidence-based teaching with practical learning and exposure to research and real-world practice.
Our academic offerings include degree and diploma programmes designed to prepare the next generation of mental health and public health professionals, researchers, and practitioners to address complex health challenges and contribute to stronger, more responsive systems.
Training & Capacity Building
We strengthen the skills and capabilities of professionals, researchers, organisations, and communities through evidence-based training and capacity-building initiatives. Our programmes support the development of practical competencies that can be applied across research, clinical practice, programme implementation, and policy.
Our offerings include professional development and short courses, research training, fellowships, workshops, and tailored capacity-building programmes. Through these initiatives, we work with individuals and institutions to strengthen expertise, support continuous professional development, and build capacity to deliver and scale effective mental health and public health approaches.
Services
GIHD provides accessible, evidence-based mental health services designed around the needs of children, young people, families, schools, workplaces, and communities.
Our services combine research and practice to deliver appropriate, accessible, and culturally responsive support while strengthening community-based mental health care. From maternal and child health services at the Maternal and Child Health (MCH Center) to technology-enabled mental health solutions through Health Applications Technology (HAT), our services connect evidence with real-world impact.
Policy Impact
We work with policymakers, governments, researchers, practitioners, young people, individuals with lived experience of mental health, and communities to translate evidence into policies and systems that improve mental health outcomes.
We contribute to policy development, advocacy, knowledge translation, and systems strengthening — helping ensure that research leads to meaningful and sustainable change.
Latest Updates
Strengthening Pakistan's Frontline Health Systems Through Policy-Academia Integration
GIHD brought together policymakers, academics and frontline health workers to address systemic gaps in Pakistan's primary healthcare system.
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Child & Adolescent Mental Health Systems Across South Asia
A landscape analysis documenting mental health systems for children and adolescents across South Asia.
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World Mental Health Day 2025: GIHD's Commitment to Pakistan
GIHD marked World Mental Health Day 2025 with a statement on its ongoing work and programmes across Pakistan.
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