Mental Health in Saudi Arabia: Breaking the Tabo

A therapist in Dubai once explained that mental health is, at its core, a Western concept, rooted in a culture of individualism. “In the West, kids move out at the age of 18,” she observed. “In Arab cultures, they move out when they get married—even if they are depressed because of their family.” For much of Saudi Arabia’s history, mental health was viewed through a collective lens: family was the default support system, and personal struggles were resolved by an imam or a trusted elder. Therapy, if considered at all, was a last resort, often stigmatized as a sign of weakness.

Yet, as the country undergoes profound social and economic transformation, mental health has emerged as an urgent topic. Traditional coping mechanisms are being tested by modern pressures such as urbanization, economic reforms, and the demands of a younger, more connected population. What was once dismissed as a luxury is now a growing focus—a reflection of the country’s evolving cultural norms and the pressures of modernization.

A Generational and Digital Awakening

Saudi Arabia’s youth, who make up over half the population, are driving the mental health conversation. Social media platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram have become battlegrounds for dismantling stigma, with hashtags like #MentalHealthAwareness and #YouAreNotAlone attracting millions of views. These platforms have given younger Saudis the opportunity to share deeply personal stories that would have been unthinkable just a decade ago.

“With a society so active on social media, this topic is being discussed openly, making people more self-aware and breaking down barriers,” says Leena Al-Mohammed, a 24-year-old content creator. She credits social media with empowering her to seek therapy. “Seeing others share their journeys makes you realize you’re not alone.”

Podcasts are another new medium tackling the issue head-on. Shows like The Mo Show, hosted by Mo Islam, have featured guests such as Maha Taibah, a Saudi expert on well-being, and Gary Vaynerchuk, a U.S. speaker on empathy and resilience. These conversations blend local and global perspectives, reflecting a societal shift toward openness. The growing popularity of podcasts underscores the appetite for nuanced discussions on mental health in a rapidly changing society.

Apps offering discreet access to therapy are also fueling the trend, particularly among young professionals. This digital approach has made mental health services more accessible and less intimidating, further normalising the idea of seeking help.

A Cultural and Policy Shift

Government action has been instrumental in advancing mental health awareness. In 2018, the National Center for Mental Health Promotion was established, launching public campaigns, hotlines, and digital platforms to improve accessibility. Between 2018 and 2023, the Ministry of Health reported a 60% increase in the use of mental health services, highlighting the growing acceptance of therapy.

This change is as pragmatic as it is progressive. A resilient, emotionally healthy workforce is essential for achieving Saudi Arabia’s ambitious economic goals. "Accessibility has changed the landscape," says Dr. Khalid Al-Saif, a Riyadh-based psychiatrist. "When culturally sensitive options are available, people are far more likely to seek help."

Perspectives from the Frontline

Dr. Khalid A. sheds light on the diverse challenges he encounters in his practice. “We see a wide spectrum of cases, ranging from anxiety and depression to stress-related disorders tied to economic changes and societal expectations,” he explains. “Younger patients often struggle with pressures related to academic performance and career aspirations, while older individuals may face difficulties adapting to rapid cultural shifts.”

He notes that while younger Saudis are increasingly open to seeking therapy, older generations often remain hesitant. “For some, acknowledging mental health struggles is still seen as a sign of weakness, a mindset that we’re working hard to change,” Dr. Khalid says.

Another trend Dr. Khalid observes is the growing role of family dynamics in mental health cases. “Many of my patients cite familial conflict or unrealistic expectations as primary stressors. In a culture where family is central, navigating these challenges can feel particularly overwhelming.”

The therapist’s earlier observation highlights a deeper cultural shift. Historically, mental health in Arab societies revolved around collective support, but therapy introduces a new focus on the individual. For many younger Saudis, this evolution represents a balancing act—acknowledging modern needs while respecting traditional values.

Hidden Role of Religion

Religion, once viewed as a potential obstacle to therapy, is being reframed as an ally. Prominent scholars now emphasize that Islamic teachings encourage self-care, framing therapy as a practice of wisdom rather than weakness. Sheikh Abdullah Q., a well-known scholar, explains: “Our faith encourages care for both the mind and body. Seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness but of strength.”

This alignment has been critical in bridging the cultural divide, particularly in conservative communities. For older Saudis, the integration of faith with therapy offers a way to reconcile modern practices with deeply held traditions.

Progress and Challenges

Saudi women, more than men, are leading efforts to normalize mental health awareness. Many have integrated emotional well-being into their professional roles, reflecting both rising demand and greater societal acceptance. However, significant challenges remain. Access to mental health services in rural areas is limited, and entrenched stigma continues to hinder older generations from seeking therapy.

Despite these obstacles, the trajectory is clear. Social media, podcasts, and government initiatives are transforming what was once a whispered topic into a national conversation. Mental health is no longer dismissed but increasingly recognized as an essential part of the country’s future.

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