Kenyans Among Most Mentally Strong Globally: Report

A new report has revealed that Kenyans are among the most mentally resilient people globally, with a higher Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) than many Western nations.

According to the Mental State of the World 2024 report by Sapien Labs, African countries generally have better mental health compared to high-income nations.

The study, which analyzed over one million responses from internet users across 76 countries, highlights Kenya, Tanzania, and Nigeria as the top African nations where young adults demonstrate greater mental resilience.

On a mental health scale of 0 to 100, young adults in Kenya score between 50 and 60, outperforming their peers in Western countries, where mental health has significantly declined since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scouts from different countries during the 61st Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi on December 12, 2024. /PCS

In contrast, youth in nations like the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Ukraine are experiencing some of the lowest mental health scores, ranging between 30 and 40.

South Africa stands out as the only surveyed African country with mental health levels similar to Western nations, as its youth also score 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 stated in part.

Why Are Kenyans Strong Mentally?

Kenya’s stronger youth mental health is largely attributed to key factors such as strong social and family connections.

Unlike in Western countries, where individualism and digital isolation have eroded traditional support systems, Kenyan youth continue to benefit from close-knit families and a strong sense of community.

The report also highlights that young people in Kenya are typically introduced to smartphones and social media later than their Western counterparts, delaying the negative effects associated with excessive screen time.

Additionally, Kenyan youth engage in more face-to-face social interactions compared to those in high-income nations, fostering emotional resilience. They also participate in outdoor activities such as sports and community events, which help reduce stress and promote mental well-being.

Despite these advantages, the report warns of emerging threats to mental health, including early smartphone exposure, processed diets, and weakening social structures.

With urbanization and increased digital adoption, Kenyan youth are beginning to experience rising levels of anxiety, depression, and emotional distress, resembling trends observed in Western nations.

Dr. Tara Thiagarajan, Founder and Chief Scientist at Sapien Labs, cautions that while Kenyan youth currently enjoy a mental resilience advantage, this could be at risk unless governments and communities take proactive measures.

“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.

A photo of Kenyans talking to each other in an office. /iSTOCK