The World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Friday that nearly a quarter of Yemen’s population is experiencing mental health problems, a consequence of the ongoing war and conflict that has persisted for years. The country is facing significant deficiencies in mental health care and support.

In a recent report released in conjunction with World Mental Health Day, the WHO estimated that approximately 7 million people in Yemen are grappling with mental health issues, while only about 120,000 receive the necessary care and assistance.

The report highlighted an unprecedented gap between the demand for mental health services and their availability, noting that mental health clinics are scarce, medications are often unavailable, and there is a significant shortage of mental health professionals.

Furthermore, societal stigma towards mental health patients contributes to their marginalization, and many individuals fear judgment from their communities, deterring them from seeking help.

Dr. Hanan, who manages a WHO-supported mental health clinic in Yemen, discussed her volunteer efforts to address mental health issues. She indicated that while the clinic has not seen a high volume of patients, they receive referrals from other facilities.

“Now we see about 20 patients each month, most of whom are women,” she explained, adding that many of their issues are linked to deteriorating economic conditions and the inability to support their families, particularly their children.

Dr. Hanan noted that fear of societal judgment often prevents mental health patients from seeking the help they need. She described the clinic's offerings: “We provide only psychological and social support aimed at enhancing mental well-being and helping people cope with stress, trauma, and crises. However, when a psychotic case is referred to us, we send them to a psychiatric hospital for specialized treatment, knowing they will likely refuse due to fear of what others might think.”

Yemen has been embroiled in conflict since September 2014, following the Houthi group's takeover of the capital, Sana'a, and their subsequent coup against state institutions, leading to a severe economic downturn and pushing millions of Yemenis into unemployment.