Kenyans have been ranked among the most mentally strong in the world, with a higher Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) compared to the Western countries.
According to the Mental State of the World 2024 Report by Sapien Labs, African countries have better mental health compared to high-income countries.
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The report, which analyzed over one million responses from internet-enabled populations in 76 countries, indicates that Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria are the top African nations where young adults exhibit stronger mental resilience.
On a 0-100 mental health scale, Kenyan young adults score between 50 and 60, which is higher than the youth in Western countries, where mental health has been in sharp decline since the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Countries With Lower Mental Strength
On the other hand, young people in countries such as the United Kingdom (UK), New Zealand, and Ukraine are experiencing record-low mental health levels, with scores ranging from 30 to 40.
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Additionally, South Africa is the only country surveyed in Africa that is aligned more with the West, with South African youth scoring between 30 and 40 MHQ
“Tanzania ranks first in Africa and the highest globally. However, it is worth noting that the figures for African youth are still way below the average figures for older adults across the globe.
“South Africa is the only country surveyed in Africa that is aligned more with the West, with South African youth scoring between 30-40 MHQ, which is low, but still above poorly performing countries such as the UK, Ukraine and New Zealand,” the report indicated.
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Why Kenyans Are Mentally Strong
Kenya’s stronger youth mental health is attributed to several key factors, including stronger social and family bonds.
Unlike in Western countries, where individualism and digital isolation have weakened traditional support systems, Kenyan youth still benefit from strong family ties and a sense of community.
At the same time, the report noted that many young people in Kenya are introduced to smartphones and social media later than their Western peers, delaying the negative effects linked to excessive screen time.
Compared to youth in high-income nations, Kenyan young adults engage in more in-person social interactions, which build emotional resilience.
Also, they engage in outdoor activities, including sports and community events, which help reduce stress and boost mental well-being.
Despite the high scores, the report highlights early smartphone exposure, processed diets, and weakening social structures as growing threats to mental well-being.
With increased urbanization and digital adoption, Kenyan youth are starting to experience higher levels of anxiety, depression, and emotional distress, mirroring trends in Western nations.
Dr. Tara Thiagarajan, Founder and Chief Scientist at Sapien Labs, warns that while Kenyan youth currently have an advantage, this resilience is at risk if governments and communities do not act now.
“Africa holds a unique advantage in youth mental health, but this must be actively protected as the continent undergoes rapid technological and economic shifts,” she stated.
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