Côte d’Ivoire is confronting rising mental health challenges linked to economic pressure, rapid urbanisation, and the lingering effects of past political instability, while access to care remains sharply divided between urban centres and rural communities.
Mental health professionals report increasing cases of depression, anxiety, psychosis, and substance-use disorders, particularly in major cities such as Abidjan. However, outside urban areas, mental health services are scarce, leaving many Ivorians without professional support.
“Mental health care in Côte d’Ivoire is largely concentrated in the cities,” said Dr. Kouassi N’Guessan, a psychiatrist in Abidjan. “For people in rural areas, services are often too far away or completely unavailable.”
Legacy of Crisis and Psychological Trauma
Although Côte d’Ivoire has enjoyed relative political stability in recent years, the psychological impact of the country’s past civil conflicts continues to affect many citizens. Survivors of violence and displacement often experience untreated trauma.
“Many people carry emotional scars from the years of crisis,” said Marie-Claire Kouamé, a psychosocial support worker. “Yet mental health rarely features in post-conflict recovery discussions.”
Limited Infrastructure and Workforce
Côte d’Ivoire has a small number of specialised psychiatric hospitals and trained mental health professionals compared to its population. Most psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychiatric nurses are based in Abidjan, creating a heavy burden on urban facilities.
Primary healthcare centres in rural regions often lack trained staff and essential medications for mental health treatment.
“Decentralising services is critical,” Dr. N’Guessan noted. “Mental health cannot remain an urban privilege.”
Stigma and Traditional Beliefs
Cultural stigma remains widespread. Mental illness is frequently attributed to spiritual causes, pushing families to seek help from traditional healers before turning to medical professionals.
Advocates warn that delayed treatment worsens outcomes and exposes vulnerable individuals to abuse.
“Stigma keeps people from seeking help early,” Kouamé said. “Awareness campaigns are urgently needed.”
Youth, Drugs, and Economic Stress
Young people are increasingly affected by mental health challenges linked to unemployment, academic pressure, and substance abuse. Health workers report rising cases of drug-induced psychosis and depression among adolescents and young adults.
“We are seeing more young people struggling psychologically, especially in urban slums,” said Yao Konan, a youth counsellor. “Without support, the consequences can be severe.”
Calls for Policy Action
Mental health advocates are urging the government to strengthen national mental health policies, expand community-based services, and increase funding for mental health care.
“Mental well-being is essential for national productivity and social cohesion,” Dr. N’Guessan said. “Ignoring it will only deepen inequality.”
As Côte d’Ivoire continues its development journey, experts stress that closing the urban–rural mental health gap is critical to ensuring inclusive and sustainable progress.
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