Top 10 African Countries with the Highest Rates of Depressive Disorders in 2025

In Summary 

• In many African nations, depression rates are influenced less by cultural stigma and more by shifting socio-economic realities such as unemployment and migration.
• Countries with smaller populations, such as Cape Verde and Lesotho, record disproportionately high percentages, highlighting how scale intensifies public health challenges.
• Recent investments in digital health and community-driven support systems are slowly reshaping how mental health care is delivered across the continent.

Deep Dive!!

Lagos, Nigeria, Wednesday, September 24 - Depression has often been described as a silent crisis, but across Africa, it is increasingly being recognized as a pressing public health concern. While global attention has historically focused on infectious diseases, the reality is that millions of Africans are affected by depressive disorders every year. These conditions shape not only individual well-being but also wider social and economic productivity. The 2025 data on prevalence offers a closer look at how different African countries are navigating this challenge.

What stands out in the numbers is the variation in rates across the continent. North African countries like Tunisia and Morocco report some of the highest figures, while smaller states such as Lesotho and Cape Verde show how limited resources amplify the impact of mental health struggles. These statistics reflect lived realities shaped by culture, health infrastructure, economic shifts, and even political transitions.

Alongside the challenges, there is also resilience and progress. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and local communities are gradually pushing for better awareness, improved access to care, and the integration of mental health into primary health systems. By ranking the top ten African countries with the highest prevalence of depressive disorders, this article provides both an honest snapshot of the challenges and an account of the initiatives aiming to reshape Africa’s mental health landscape.

10. Equatorial Guinea 

Equatorial Guinea records an estimated 5,304 people living with depressive disorders, representing about 5.49% of its population. For a relatively small country, this percentage places it among the top ten in Africa with the highest prevalence rates.

The causes are layered and go beyond individual factors. Equatorial Guinea’s wealth from oil has not translated into broad social welfare, leaving gaps in health systems and community services. Economic inequality, youth unemployment, and the lingering effects of rapid urban migration contribute to mental health pressures. Cultural stigma around mental illness also makes it difficult for many to seek timely support, resulting in underdiagnosed and untreated conditions.

In recent years, there have been quiet but important shifts. Mental health is beginning to be integrated into national health discussions, with pilot projects exploring how primary health centers can provide basic support for depression. International collaborations with NGOs are also helping to train local health workers in psychosocial care. While progress is gradual, these initiatives reflect an effort to build a foundation for long-term mental health awareness and treatment.

9. Mauritius 

Mauritius reports about 5,317 cases of depressive disorders, amounting to 5.44% of its population. Despite being a small island nation often highlighted for its stability and economic progress, the data shows that depression remains a significant health issue.

Several factors contribute to these figures. The country’s fast-paced economic transformation has created pressure on younger generations, with rising expectations in education and work. Urban lifestyles, coupled with social isolation in some communities, add to mental health burdens. While Mauritius has a relatively strong healthcare system compared to many African peers, mental health often receives less funding and public attention than physical health concerns. Cultural reluctance to openly discuss mental health further complicates early diagnosis and treatment.

On the positive side, Mauritius has been one of the more proactive African states in addressing psychological well-being. National awareness campaigns are gradually reducing stigma, and mental health services are increasingly being incorporated into hospitals and clinics. The government has also partnered with international health bodies to strengthen training for professionals in counseling and psychiatry. These steps signal a slow but steady recognition that mental health is integral to the country’s development.

8. South Africa 

South Africa has about 5,415 reported cases of depressive disorders, representing 5.56% of its population. As one of Africa’s largest economies and most urbanized societies, its mental health statistics provide a window into the pressures that come with rapid social and economic change.

The prevalence of depression here is shaped by complex factors. High unemployment rates, inequality, and the lingering legacy of apartheid contribute to ongoing stress within communities. Urban violence, substance abuse, and the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS further create environments where mental health issues intensify. While awareness is growing, stigma continues to be a barrier, and many people rely on informal community support rather than professional care. Rural areas face additional challenges, with limited access to psychologists or psychiatric services.

Reforms are, however, underway. The South African government has begun expanding mental health services through its National Mental Health Policy Framework, which aims to integrate psychological support into primary healthcare. Universities and local NGOs are also advancing counseling programs and crisis hotlines, offering accessible alternatives for those who cannot afford private care. These efforts, though gradual, reflect a recognition that tackling depression is central to improving overall public health and social stability.

7. Libya

Libya records around 5,554 people living with depressive disorders, representing 5.72% of its population. Despite its relatively small size, this figure places the country high on the continental scale of mental health challenges.

The prolonged conflict and political instability since 2011 have had a deep impact on Libyans’ mental health. Displacement, unemployment, and exposure to violence have left lasting scars on communities. The collapse of many public institutions means mental health care is not prioritized, and access to treatment is limited. Many cases of depression remain untreated due to the absence of specialists, and stigma continues to discourage people from seeking help. Families often rely on traditional coping methods or religious guidance instead of professional support.

Still, there are glimpses of progress. International organizations working in Libya have introduced community-based psychosocial programs, particularly for displaced families and youth. Local health workers are being trained to provide basic counseling within primary healthcare settings. Although the system remains fragile, these efforts demonstrate resilience in the face of instability and signal the beginnings of a framework for broader mental health support.

6. Republic of the Congo

The Republic of the Congo reports about 5,707 cases of depressive disorders, accounting for 5.78% of its population. While smaller in scale than its larger neighbor, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this country still shows a considerable share of people living with depression.

The drivers of depression here are linked to both economic and social pressures. Despite its oil resources, wealth distribution remains uneven, leaving many citizens struggling with unemployment and poverty. Political tensions and limited public services add another layer of stress. Mental health is further complicated by the persistence of cultural stigma, where discussing psychological distress is often dismissed or misunderstood. This results in underreporting and reduced access to formal treatment.

Efforts to address these challenges are slowly emerging. Health authorities, with support from regional organizations, have started campaigns to raise awareness about mental health, encouraging communities to see it as part of general healthcare. Training programs for nurses and doctors are beginning to include basic mental health modules, and partnerships with NGOs are expanding counseling services in urban areas. Though still early, these initiatives mark important steps toward reducing the burden of depression in the Republic of the Congo.

5. Cape Verde 

Cape Verde records approximately 5,851 cases of depressive disorders, representing 6.09% of its population. This makes the island nation one of the countries in Africa with the highest relative burden of depression compared to its population size.

The pressures here are shaped by Cape Verde’s geography and economy. As a small island nation, limited economic opportunities, reliance on tourism, and high youth unemployment create an environment where psychological distress is common. Migration is another factor many Cape Verdeans live abroad, and family separations often result in loneliness and social disconnection at home. Cultural hesitation to openly discuss mental health adds to the challenge, meaning many individuals go untreated or are supported informally by family and community networks rather than through professional care.

Yet, Cape Verde has also been proactive in acknowledging the importance of mental health. The government has collaborated with the World Health Organization on integrating mental health into primary care, ensuring basic support is available outside major hospitals. Public health campaigns are helping to normalize conversations around psychological well-being, especially among the youth. These gradual reforms signal an encouraging commitment to reducing stigma and expanding access to mental health services.

4. Gabon

Gabon reports around 5,857 people living with depressive disorders, representing 6.16% of its population. Despite its relatively small size, this percentage places Gabon among the top five countries in Africa with the highest rates of depression.

The roots of these figures can be traced to social and economic disparities. Gabon is an oil-rich state, but much of its population continues to face unemployment and high living costs, particularly in urban areas. The pressures of inequality, coupled with rising expectations in education and work, weigh heavily on families and youth. Social stigma around mental health remains strong, discouraging open discussion and professional treatment. Many turn instead to religious or community-based support systems, which provide comfort but often fall short of addressing clinical depression.

In response, Gabon has begun to take steps toward integrating mental health into broader health strategies. The Ministry of Health, with support from international partners, is training general practitioners in basic psychiatric care and increasing the availability of counseling services. Civil society groups are also becoming more active in awareness campaigns, particularly targeting schools and workplaces. While the system is still underdeveloped, these moves indicate a growing recognition of depression as a public health issue requiring sustained attention.

3. Morocco 

Morocco registers about 6,258 cases of depressive disorders, representing 6.54% of its population. This figure places it firmly among the countries with the highest depression prevalence rates in Africa.

Several factors contribute to the situation. Economic inequalities between rural and urban areas are a major driver, as limited opportunities in rural regions often lead to migration, family separation, and financial strain. Unemployment among young graduates, combined with social expectations, creates added psychological pressure. Morocco also has a cultural environment where conversations about mental health remain sensitive, and many people turn to informal care or spiritual guidance instead of professional treatment. These realities mean that a significant proportion of depression cases remain underdiagnosed or untreated.

In recent years, Morocco has started to expand its response to mental health challenges. The government has worked to increase psychiatric facilities and provide training for general physicians to detect and treat depression at earlier stages. National awareness programs are helping to reduce stigma, while schools and universities are being encouraged to include counseling services. These reforms, though still developing, reflect a broader effort to strengthen the country’s health system by integrating psychological well-being into its core priorities.

2. Lesotho

Lesotho reports approximately 6,631 people living with depressive disorders, which accounts for 6.89% of its population. This high percentage places the small mountain kingdom second on the continent in terms of depression prevalence.

The drivers of these figures are deeply tied to the country’s social and health context. Lesotho faces one of the highest HIV/AIDS rates in the world, and the burden of chronic illness significantly overlaps with mental health struggles. Economic challenges, including heavy reliance on subsistence farming and remittances from South Africa, leave many households vulnerable to financial stress. Geographic isolation in rural areas also limits access to healthcare facilities, making it difficult for those experiencing depression to find professional help.

Despite these difficulties, Lesotho has been making gradual progress in tackling mental health. The government, with the support of international partners, has begun integrating mental health into primary healthcare services. Training programs for nurses and community health workers now include psychosocial support, ensuring basic assistance reaches rural communities. Civil society and advocacy groups are also promoting awareness to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention. While the system remains limited, these efforts are laying the groundwork for more inclusive healthcare in the future.

1. Tunisia

Tunisia records about 7,265 people living with depressive disorders, which represents 7.57% of its population. This makes it the African country with the highest reported prevalence of depression in 2025.

The figures reflect Tunisia’s unique social and political context. Since the 2011 revolution, the country has faced persistent economic challenges, including unemployment, inflation, and regional inequalities. Young people, in particular, carry the weight of limited opportunities and high expectations, creating a fertile ground for psychological distress. Social stigma surrounding mental health further complicates access to care, and many individuals suffer in silence rather than seeking professional support. These dynamics make depression a widespread yet often under-recognized issue.

At the same time, Tunisia is also one of the more advanced African countries in acknowledging and addressing mental health. Psychiatric services are relatively more developed than in many neighboring countries, with specialized hospitals and trained professionals present in major cities. Awareness campaigns are slowly opening up public discussion, and initiatives are being launched to expand counseling in schools and workplaces. Although gaps remain, particularly in rural areas, Tunisia’s growing recognition of mental health as a public health priority offers hope for more comprehensive care in the years ahead.