The Ibn Al-Jazzar University Hospital in Kairouan, Tunisia, has recorded 10,555 mental health consultations since the beginning of 2026, according to Dr. Jihan Mnai Fayz, head of the hospital's mental health department. This marks a substantial rise from 2025, when a total of 8,670 consultations were registered throughout the year. The increasing demand for mental health services reflects a growing awareness that mental health is just as important as physical health.
Dr. Fayz attributed the surge in mental health consultations to a rising awareness of mental health issues among the population. She emphasized the need for intensified awareness campaigns, education, and early intervention to prevent the exacerbation of mental health disorders. The hospital's mental health department is working to address the growing demand for services, particularly among vulnerable populations such as adolescents and young adults.
The hospital is experiencing a significant increase in emergency cases requiring immediate medical attention, with 12 to 13 cases per day in 2026, compared to 3 to 4 cases per day in previous years. This rise in emergency cases is putting a strain on the hospital's resources, highlighting the need for additional support and infrastructure to meet the growing demand for mental health services.
According to Dr. Fayz, the most common mental health disorders presenting at the hospital's clinics include depression, anxiety, and addiction. These conditions are often affecting young people, with those aged 14 to 21 and 40 to 55 being the most represented groups. The hospital is working to provide targeted interventions and support to these populations.
The increasing demand for mental health services is not limited to public hospitals, with a growing trend towards seeking private care. Dr. Fayz noted that this shift reflects a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and a desire for more specialized and individualized care. However, this trend also raises concerns about accessibility and equity in mental health care.
To address the growing mental health needs of the population, Dr. Fayz emphasized the importance of promoting a culture of prevention and protection from psychological stress, as well as early detection and intervention. This includes raising awareness about mental health issues, reducing stigma, and providing accessible and affordable care to those in need.
The Tunisian Association of Private Sector Psychiatrists, in collaboration with the Kairouan Regional Health and Education Departments, recently organized a sensitization day to mark World Mental Health Day. The event highlighted the need for increased awareness and action to address the growing mental health needs of the population, and to promote a culture of mental well-being and resilience.
Key points
- The Ibn Al-Jazzar University Hospital in Kairouan has recorded 10,555 mental health consultations since January 2026.
- The hospital is experiencing a significant increase in emergency cases requiring immediate medical attention.
- The most common mental health disorders presenting at the hospital's clinics include depression, anxiety, and addiction.
