Senegal has made notable progress in integrating mental health services into community healthcare, positioning itself as one of West Africa’s more proactive countries in addressing psychological wellbeing. However, experts say stigma, limited funding, and a shortage of trained professionals continue to restrict access to care for many citizens.
Mental health specialists report rising cases of depression, anxiety, substance-use disorders, and stress-related conditions, particularly in urban centres where unemployment and cost-of-living pressures are growing. Rural communities, meanwhile, remain underserved.
“Mental health services have improved, but access is still unequal,” said Dr. Mamadou Diouf, a psychiatrist based in Dakar. “Where a person lives often determines whether they receive care or not.”
Community-Based Approach Gains Ground
Senegal has increasingly adopted a community mental health model, integrating mental health services into general hospitals and primary healthcare centres. This approach has reduced reliance on large psychiatric institutions and helped decentralise care.
Health officials say the strategy has improved early detection and follow-up, particularly for common mental health conditions.
“Bringing mental health into community clinics makes care less intimidating and more accessible,” said Awa Ndiaye, a mental health nurse in Thiès. “People are more willing to seek help when services are closer to home.”
Despite these gains, Senegal still faces a shortage of psychiatrists and clinical psychologists, most of whom are concentrated in major cities.
Stigma and Cultural Barriers
Stigma remains a major challenge. Mental illness is often viewed through cultural or spiritual lenses, leading many families to delay seeking professional help.
Advocates say fear of discrimination in workplaces and schools continues to silence people living with mental health conditions.
“Stigma discourages people from speaking openly about their struggles,” said Cheikh Fall, a mental health advocate. “Education is key to changing mindsets.”
Youth Mental Health and Substance Use
Mental health professionals have raised concerns about the growing impact of mental health issues among young people. Unemployment, academic pressure, and substance abuse—particularly alcohol and cannabis—are contributing to rising psychological distress.
Counselling services in schools and universities remain limited, leaving many young people without early support.
“Young people are under enormous pressure, and mental health support has not kept pace,” Fall noted.
Policy and Investment Gaps
While Senegal has national mental health policies, experts say funding remains insufficient to meet growing demand. Mental health advocates are calling for increased budgetary allocation, expanded insurance coverage, and more training opportunities for mental health professionals.
“Mental health must be treated as an essential part of public health, not an optional service,” Dr. Diouf said.
A Model Still in Progress
As Senegal continues to strengthen its community-based mental health system, experts stress that sustained investment, workforce development, and public education will determine the success of ongoing reforms.
For many advocates, the goal is clear: ensuring that mental health care is accessible, affordable, and free from stigma for all Senegalese citizens.
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