2023-12-11 14:13:43
Mental Health Struggle in Tunisia: Fear of Stigma Hinders Treatment
Mental health specialists in Tunisia agree that the culture of seeking psychological treatment is still limited among citizens, with many afraid to go to psychiatric clinics due to the fear of addiction to medications or being exposed to social rejection and stigma within their social environment.
The latest studies show that about 20 percent of children and adolescents suffer from anxiety disorders, and mental illnesses among adults constitute 98 percent of the reasons for long leaves in the government sector.
Indicators issued by the World Health Organization also show that the demand for tranquilizer pills in Tunisia has reached 15 percent.
Dr. Wahid Maleki, a psychologist, explained that the demand for psychological treatment has increased in Tunisia due to recent political, economic, and social changes, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. While talking about psychiatry has become easier, some individuals still hide their mental illness for fear of social rejection, and others refuse treatment for fear of drug addiction.
Psychologist Cyrine Bakkar added that the effects of psychological disorders extend beyond the individual, affecting society and raising rates of phenomena such as school dropout, addiction, and illegal immigration. She emphasized the need for accurate diagnosis of mental illnesses, far from self-medication or resorting to “life coaches.”
The Nedaa Center for Mental Health, “Ahkili,” provides psychological counseling, with most consultations related to overcoming crises, dealing with children and adolescents, adapting to the work environment, and overcoming psychological anxiety.
Many individuals, such as Maryam, choose to hide their psychological treatment from their families out of fear of social stigma. Others, like Majed, struggle with the high cost of psychological treatment, which they believe is only affordable for the wealthy class.
Sinada, being treated for bipolar disorder, faced rejection and fear from her fiancé when he learned of her illness, leading her to regret sharing her struggles.
Overall, the cost of psychological treatment in the private sector in Tunisia is high compared to the standard of living, with limited options in the public sector, which only provides psychological clinics in a single government hospital specializing in mental, neurological, and psychological diseases.
The struggle to openly address and treat mental health issues in Tunisia remains a significant challenge, with fear of stigma and limited access to affordable care posing significant barriers for those in need.]
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