Morocco ranks third in Africa for depression rates in 2025

Friday 10 October 2025 - 15:08

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco ranks third in Africa for depression rates in 2025

Behind the everyday smiles, Morocco has emerged as one of Africa’s most affected nations by depression, according to figures from World Population Review, as cited by The African Exponent. In 2025, approximately 2.326 million Moroccans, 6.54% of the population, are experiencing depressive symptoms. This places Morocco third on the continent, following Tunisia and Lesotho.

Social and economic factors driving the crisis

The data reveal a nuanced and troubling reality. Economic disparities between rural and urban regions, persistent unemployment among young graduates, and societal pressures linked to family and professional expectations have collectively undermined mental well-being. Migration to larger cities or abroad, often pursued as an economic solution, frequently leads to isolation, emotional displacement, and loneliness, further exacerbating mental health challenges.

Stigma and barriers to treatment

Depression remains a sensitive and under-discussed issue in Morocco. Many sufferers avoid seeking professional help due to the stigma associated with mental illness or a lack of awareness about available treatments. Instead, informal coping mechanisms, such as relying on spirituality or family advice, are commonly adopted, often delaying medical intervention and worsening symptoms.

Alarming rise in youth mental health issues

Younger generations appear especially vulnerable. The Ministry of Health’s 2018 National Strategic Plan for the Promotion of Mental Health among Children, Adolescents, and Youth reports that rates of depressive and anxiety disorders among individuals under 20 have doubled over the last decade. Suicide has now become the second leading cause of death among 15 to 19-year-olds, following road accidents.

Government efforts and ongoing challenges

Despite intensified government efforts, including the expansion of psychiatric services, the training of general practitioners in mental health detection, and awareness campaigns, the growing prevalence of cases exposes the insufficiency of these measures.

Regional and global context

Regionally, Tunisia leads Africa with 7.6% of its population affected by depression, followed by Lesotho at 6.9%. Morocco’s third-place ranking puts it ahead of Gabon (5.85%), Cape Verde (5.84%), and the Republic of the Congo (5.70%).

Globally, depression affects approximately 3.4% of the world’s population, over 260 million people, according to the World Health Organization. In low- and middle-income countries, more than three-quarters of those affected lack access to proper treatment, further widening healthcare inequalities and posing significant challenges to integrating mental health into public policies.