North Africa is facing an acute mental health challenge, with three of its countries—Tunisia, Morocco, and Libya—ranking among the ten African nations with the highest rates of depressive disorders. The findings, published by The African Exponent, highlight stark differences in prevalence across the continent and underscore the scale of the issue in the region.
Tunisia leads the continent, reporting that 7.57% of its population—equating to approximately 939,000 people—live with depressive disorders. The country’s situation reflects persistent economic pressures, unemployment, and elevated expectations among youth. Political transitions and regional inequalities have deepened psychological distress, while stigma and gaps in mental health infrastructure mean many Tunisian cases remain untreated. However, Tunisia’s psychiatric services are considered better developed than in neighboring countries, with ongoing expansion in awareness initiatives.
Morocco follows as the third most affected African country, with 6.54% of its population struggling with depression. Economic disparities between urban and rural areas, youth unemployment, and migration-related family separation are major contributors. The cultural environment remains a barrier, and while reforms have expanded psychiatric facilities and counseling in educational institutions, many cases go unrecognized or lack adequate intervention.
Libya is also featured prominently, recording a 5.72% depression rate. The protracted conflict since 2011 has caused widespread displacement, instability, and trauma, leaving deep scars on community mental health. The collapse of public institutions and limited specialist access mean depression remains largely untreated, with families often relying on traditional coping mechanisms instead of professional support. Recent years, however, have seen some international organizations supporting local health workers with basic psychosocial training, signaling modest steps forward.
Tunisia, Morocco, and Libya exemplify how North Africa’s socio-economic shifts, political developments, and persistent public health gaps shape mental health outcomes. Economic stress, migration, unemployment, and the effects of instability play a decisive role in driving depression rates. All three countries are gradually expanding their responses through awareness campaigns, integration of mental health into primary care, and increased training for health professionals. Yet progress remains uneven, hampered by stigma and resource constraints, especially outside major urban centers.
