In Summary
- In many African nations, depression rates are influenced less by cultural stigma and more by shifting socio-economic realities such as unemployment and migration.
- Countries with smaller populations, such as Cape Verde and Lesotho, record disproportionately high percentages, highlighting how scale intensifies public health challenges.
- Recent investments in digital health and community-driven support systems are slowly reshaping how mental health care is delivered across the continent.
Deep Dive!!
Lagos, Nigeria, Wednesday, September 24 – Depression has often been described as a silent crisis, but across Africa, it is increasingly being recognized as a pressing public health concern. While global attention has historically focused on infectious diseases, the reality is that millions of Africans are affected by depressive disorders every year. These conditions shape not only individual well-being but also wider social and economic productivity. The 2025 data on prevalence offers a closer look at how different African countries are navigating this challenge.
What stands out in the numbers is the variation in rates across the continent. North African countries like Tunisia and Morocco report some of the highest figures, while smaller states such as Lesotho and Cape Verde show how limited resources amplify the impact of mental health struggles. These statistics reflect lived realities shaped by culture, health infrastructure, economic shifts, and even political transitions.
Alongside the challenges, there is also resilience and progress. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and local communities are gradually pushing for better awareness, improved access to care, and the integration of mental health into primary health systems. By ranking the top ten African countries with the highest prevalence of depressive disorders, this article provides both an honest snapshot of the challenges and an account of the initiatives aiming to reshape Africa’s mental health landscape.
10. Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea records an estimated 5,304 people living with depressive disorders, representing about 5.49% of its population. For a relatively small country, this percentage places it among the top ten in Africa with the highest prevalence rates.
The causes are layered and go beyond individual factors. Equatorial Guinea’s wealth from oil has not translated into broad social welfare, leaving gaps in health systems and community services. Economic inequality, youth unemployment, and the lingering effects of rapid urban migration contribute to mental health pressures. Cultural stigma around mental illness also makes it difficult for many to seek timely support, resulting in underdiagnosed and untreated conditions.
In recent years, there have been quiet but important shifts. Mental health is beginning to be integrated into national health discussions, with pilot projects exploring how primary health centers can provide basic support for depression. International collaborations with NGOs are also helping to train local health workers in psychosocial care. While progress is gradual, these initiatives reflect an effort to build a foundation for long-term mental health awareness and treatment.
9. Mauritius
Mauritius reports about 5,317 cases of depressive disorders, amounting to 5.44% of its population. Despite being a small island nation often highlighted for its stability and economic progress, the data shows that depression remains a significant health issue.
Several factors contribute to these figures. The country’s fast-paced economic transformation has created pressure on younger generations, with rising expectations in education and work. Urban lifestyles, coupled with social isolation in some communities, add to mental health burdens. While Mauritius has a relatively strong healthcare system compared to many African peers, mental health often receives less funding and public attention than physical health concerns. Cultural reluctance to openly discuss mental health further complicates early diagnosis and treatment.
On the positive side, Mauritius has been one of the more proactive African states in addressing psychological well-being. National awareness campaigns are gradually reducing stigma, and mental health services are increasingly being incorporated into hospitals and clinics. The government has also partnered with international health bodies to strengthen training for professionals in counseling and psychiatry. These steps signal a slow but steady recognition that mental health is integral to the country’s development.
8. South Africa
South Africa has about 5,415 reported cases of depressive disorders, representing 5.56% of its population. As one of Africa’s largest economies and most urbanized societies, its mental health statistics provide a window into the pressures that come with rapid social and economic change.
The prevalence of depression here is shaped by complex factors. High unemployment rates, inequality, and the lingering legacy of apartheid contribute to ongoing stress within communities. Urban violence, substance abuse, and the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS further create environments where mental health issues intensify. While awareness is growing, stigma continues to be a barrier, and many people rely on informal community support rather than professional care. Rural areas face additional challenges, with limited access to psychologists or psychiatric services.
Reforms are, however, underway. The South African government has begun expanding mental health services through its National Mental Health Policy Framework, which aims to integrate psychological support into primary healthcare. Universities and local NGOs are also advancing counseling programs and crisis hotlines, offering accessible alternatives for those who cannot afford private care. These efforts, though gradual, reflect a recognition that tackling depression is central to improving overall public health and social stability.
7. Libya
Libya records around 5,554 people living with depressive disorders, representing 5.72% of its population. Despite its relatively small size, this figure places the country high on the continental scale of mental health challenges.
The prolonged conflict and political instability since 2011 have had a deep impact on Libyans’ mental health. Displacement, unemployment, and exposure to violence have left lasting scars on communities. The collapse of many public institutions means mental health care is not prioritized, and access to treatment is limited. Many cases of depression remain untreated due to the absence of specialists, and stigma continues to discourage people from seeking help. Families often rely on traditional coping methods or religious guidance instead of professional support.
Still, there are glimpses of progress. International organizations working in Libya have introduced community-based psychosocial programs, particularly for displaced families and youth. Local health workers are being trained to provide basic counseling within primary healthcare settings. Although the system remains fragile, these efforts demonstrate resilience in the face of instability and signal the beginnings of a framework for broader mental health support.
6. Republic of the Congo
The Republic of the Congo reports about 5,707 cases of depressive disorders, accounting for 5.78% of its population. While smaller in scale than its larger neighbor, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this country still shows a considerable share of people living with depression.
The drivers of depression here are linked to both economic and social pressures. Despite its oil resources, wealth distribution remains uneven, leaving many citizens struggling with unemployment and poverty. Political tensions and limited public services add another layer of stress. Mental health is further complicated by the persistence of cultural stigma, where discussing psychological distress is often dismissed or misunderstood. This results in underreporting and reduced access to formal treatment.
Efforts to address these challenges are slowly emerging. Health authorities, with support from regional organizations, have started campaigns to raise awareness about mental health, encouraging communities to see it as part of general healthcare. Training programs for nurses and doctors are beginning to include basic mental health modules, and partnerships with NGOs are expanding counseling services in urban areas. Though still early, these initiatives mark important steps toward reducing the burden of depression in the Republic of the Congo.
5. Cape Verde
Cape Verde records approximately 5,851 cases of depressive disorders, representing 6.09% of its population. This makes the island nation one of the countries in Africa with the highest relative burden of depression compared to its population size.
The pressures here are shaped by Cape Verde’s geography and economy. As a small island nation, limited economic opportunities, reliance on tourism, and high youth unemployment create an environment where psychological distress is common. Migration is another factor many Cape Verdeans live abroad, and family separations often result in loneliness and social disconnection at home. Cultural hesitation to openly discuss mental health adds to the challenge, meaning many individuals go untreated or are supported informally by family and community networks rather than through professional care.
Yet, Cape Verde has also been proactive in acknowledging the importance of mental health. The government has collaborated with the World Health Organization on integrating mental health into primary care, ensuring basic support is available outside major hospitals. Public health campaigns are helping to normalize conversations around psychological well-being, especially among the youth. These gradual reforms signal an encouraging commitment to reducing stigma and…
