馃嚙馃嚝Burkina FasoWest Africa
Burkina Faso grapples with rising mental health crisis and depression
via Lefaso.net9 min read
Social media in Burkina Faso has seen an increase in discussions and tragic announcements related to depression and psychological distress, including suicides among young people. This highlights a growing concern for mental health in the country. Depression, a global illness affecting millions regardless of age, origin, or gender, is often misunderstood or downplayed in Burkina Faso, sometimes perceived as a "rich person's or white person's disease." This perception can hinder individuals from seeking help and accessing care. Testimonies reveal the profound impact of depression, with individuals like E. B., a teacher, sharing how family difficulties led to her struggle, culminating in suicidal thoughts. She emphasizes the importance of being heard and supported, especially by loved ones. Awa, a communicator, also recounts her battle with depression, characterized by isolation and an inability to express her suffering, despite maintaining a facade of normalcy. Mental health professionals, such as Dr. Daniel Sorgho, a psychiatrist, confirm the widespread nature of depression, noting that it affects all demographics. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 4% of the global population suffers from depression, and suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people aged 15 to 20. A 2018 study in Burkina Faso found depression to be the most frequent mental disorder, affecting 11.6% of those surveyed. Dr. Sorgho stresses the need for increased awareness
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Lefaso.net.
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