About Karwan-e-Hayat
More than 90% deserving and underprivileged mentally ill patients are treated free of cost at Karwan-e-Hayat which includes psychiatric consultation, medication, hospitalization, nursing, daycare, rehabilitation and meals.
Established in 1983 by visionary leaders of Karachi including Begum Rana Liaquat Ali Khan, Dr. Zafar Qureshi and Cardinal Joseph Cordeiro, Archbishop of Karachi Karwan-e-Hayat (KeH) is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals with mental illness, particularly from underserved communities in Karachi. Guided by compassion and foresight, KeH delivers free or highly subsidized psychiatric care to those who cannot afford treatment. Registered under Section 2(36) of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001, KeH is ISO-certified, Shariah-compliant, and certified by the Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy (PCP) a testament to its accountability, transparency, and service quality.
Mental Wellness Management
Our Comprehensive Portfolio of Services at Karwan-e-Hayat
Therapy teaches us how to regulate rather than externalise. And that’s exactly why every therapist needs a therapist.
Unveiling the Light
Within: Nazia’s Journey of Healing
At 45, Nazia had endured a lifetime of silent suffering, survivor of childhood abuse, burdened by depression, and twice divorced under the weight of unhealed trauma. Each chapter of her life was marked by pain, stigma, and isolation.
But everything changed when she found Karwan-e-Hayat.
Through our compassionate care, Nazia began a journey of healing. With a customized treatment plan— combining therapy, medication, and psychiatric rehabilitation—she slowly reclaimed her voice, her strength, and her sense of self.
At Karwan-e-Hayat’s Day Care Program, Nazia discovered a passion for beauty. Vocational training
empowered her to become a skilled beautician—turning her newfound skills into a livelihood.
Today, Nazia stands tall—not as a patient, but as a thriving individual. Her journey is a testament to what’s possible with the right support, dignity, and access to mental healthcare.
“Karwan-e-Hayat helped me believe that I was not broken—just healing.”
Nazia’s transformation reflects the true impact of our work
Name changed to protect identity
A Life Reclaimed:
Mehmood’s Journey
When 72-year-old Mr. Mehmood arrived at Karwan-e-Hayat, his family was losing hope.
He had sleepless nights; he talked intently to him self and complain of severe body aches while his
loved ones remain helpless. They feared they had lost the man who once held their home together.
At Karwan-e-Hayat, he found not just treatment but compassion. Through medication, counseling, and occupational therapy, our team worked hand in hand with his family to rebuild his health and confidence.
After five months of care, the changes were profound: his speech became clearer, his nights calmer, and his daily life manageable once again. Today, he helps with home responsibilities, and most importantly he has regained his smile.
As his son said with tears of relief:
“We got our father back, thanks to Karwan-e-Hayat.”
A Second Chance in Life
Usman’s Path Towards Healing
When Usman, a middle-aged man with paranoid schizophrenia, first arrived at Karwan-e-Hayat,
his condition was severe. Malnutrition, poor hygiene, and mild intellectual disability had left him
withdrawn, isolated, and fully dependent on others.
A tailored treatment plan was developed, combining medical care, psychosocial support, and occupational therapy. Through activities like grooming, dressing, sensory techniques, and group participation, Usman slowly began to regain independence and emotional stability.
Over two years, his progress was remarkable his occupational performance improved from 2/10 to 7/10, and his life satisfaction rose from 1/10 to 6/10. Today, Usman manages his hygiene, engages in daily activities, helps staff with light tasks, and has become a role model for new clients.
His journey shows that recovery is possible with holistic care, bringing dignity, hope, and independence back to those living with mental illness.
Name changed to protect identity
Fundraising
Karwan-e-Hayat presented “Sham-e-Khusro”, a two-day fundraising event held on 1st and 2nd February 2025
Get Involved
Join hands with Karwan-e-Hayat to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals battling mental illness.
