Years after the end of its devastating civil wars and the deadly Ebola outbreak, Liberia continues to face a deep and largely unmet mental health crisis, with experts warning that trauma, depression, and substance abuse remain widespread across the country.
Mental health professionals say the psychological impact of prolonged conflict, poverty, and public health emergencies has left many Liberians struggling with untreated mental health conditions, while access to care remains limited and uneven.
“Liberia survived war and Ebola, but the mental scars are still very much with us,” said Dr. Moses Kpaka, a public health specialist in Monrovia. “Unfortunately, our mental health system is not strong enough to meet the scale of the problem.”
A System Still in Recovery
Liberia’s mental health infrastructure was almost completely destroyed during its two civil wars, which lasted from 1989 to 2003. Although efforts have been made to rebuild, the country still has very few psychiatrists and clinical psychologists, most of whom are based in the capital.
The majority of mental health services are provided through general hospitals, primary healthcare centres, and community-based programmes supported by international organisations.
“For many people in rural counties, mental health services are either too far away or simply unavailable,” said Sarah Johnson, a mental health nurse working in Bong County.
Ebola’s Lasting Psychological Impact
The 2014–2016 Ebola epidemic added another layer of trauma to an already vulnerable population. Survivors, frontline health workers, and families who lost loved ones continue to experience anxiety, grief, and social isolation.
“Ebola did not just kill people; it created fear, stigma, and long-term psychological distress,” Johnson noted. “Many survivors still struggle in silence.”
Mental health advocates say counselling and psychosocial support for Ebola survivors remain insufficient, particularly outside urban areas.
Youth, Drugs, and Economic Pressure
Young people in Liberia face growing mental health risks linked to unemployment, substance abuse, and social instability. The misuse of drugs such as tramadol and kush has become increasingly common, raising concerns among health professionals.
“We are seeing more young people with drug-induced mental health disorders,” said Emmanuel Toe, a youth counsellor in Monrovia. “Without jobs or support systems, many turn to substances as a coping mechanism.”
Stigma and Traditional Beliefs
Cultural stigma continues to prevent many Liberians from seeking professional help. Mental illness is often viewed as a spiritual or moral issue, leading families to rely on traditional or religious healers.
Advocacy groups warn that such beliefs can delay treatment and expose vulnerable individuals to abuse or neglect.
“Stigma keeps people locked in suffering,” Toe said. “We need education to change how mental illness is perceived.”
Push for Reform and Investment
The Liberian government, with support from international partners, has taken steps to integrate mental health into primary healthcare and train community mental health clinicians. However, experts stress that funding remains inadequate.
“Mental health must be recognised as essential to national recovery and development,” Dr. Kpaka said. “You cannot rebuild a nation while ignoring the minds of its people.”
As Liberia continues its post-conflict recovery, mental health advocates say sustained political commitment, public awareness, and expanded services are critical to helping citizens heal from years of collective trauma.
About The Author
