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Mental health disorders are a growing global crisis, and West Africa is no exception. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2019):

• Mental, neurological, and substance use disorders account for 10% of the global disease burden and 30% of the non-fatal disease burden .
• Depression affects 264 million people worldwide , making it one of the leading causes of disability.
• Around 1 in 5 children and adolescents have a mental disorder, while 1 in 9 people in conflict-affected areas suffer from moderate to severe mental disorders.

In The Gambia alone:

• Approximately 118,000 people (or 13% of the adult population ) are affected by mental disorders requiring treatment and care.
• Only 2 mental health workers per 100,000 people are available in low-income countries like The Gambia, compared to over 70 per 100,000 in high-income countries .
• Less than half of the 139 countries with mental health policies align them with human rights conventions.

Many factors fuel the growing mental health crisis in West Africa:

• Poverty , which remains pervasive, leaves individuals without access to basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter.
• Poor housing , inadequate healthcare, and limited educational opportunities exacerbate mental health challenges.
• Political uncertainty and economic instability further worsen psychological, social, and economic problems, increasing the risk of mental health issues and substance abuse.

But there’s hope. With your help, IVMHO is breaking the cycle of stigma, providing care, and creating a brighter future for those affected by mental illness.