According to the World health organization, health is defined as a state of complete mental, physical and social well-being. This means that one has to have a healthy mind and body to be healthy. However, mental health is often ignored in Arab countries like Saudi Arabia.

Depression and anxiety are the leading mental health problems in Saudi Arabia. According to a survey, approximately one-fifth of those seeking healthcare assistance show signs of mental health challenges. In some areas, almost 50% of the population is in need of mental healthcare services. This staggering number gives a testament to the gravity of the situation.

Common mental health problems in Saudi Arabia:

Mental illness is a grave medical condition that affects thoughts, feelings, mood, and behavior. There are many mental health problems in people residing in Saudi Arabia. These include: ● Depression

● Generalized anxiety disorder

● Substance use disorder

● Postpartum depression and psychosis

● Schizophrenia

● Intimate partner violence and abuse

● Obsessive-compulsive disorder

● Bipolar disorder

● Panic disorder

● Personality disorders

Depression:

Depression can result in low motivation, loss of productivity, and feelings of despair. It is important to recognize depression and anxiety as prompt treatment or earlier diagnosis results in a good functional outcome with complete resolution of symptoms. Some common signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression include a persistent low mood, sadness and despair, lack of self-esteem, loss of motivation, zero or low energy levels, and social withdrawal. Other signs include crying spells, loss of interest, increased alcohol or substance use to escape, and poor self-hygiene with a sudden change in appearance. Early detection is a key to complete recovery. Depression is a silent killer and leads to poor quality of life.

Causes of depression and anxiety in Arabs

Causes of high depression in Arab countries include:

● Abuse and neglect in childhood

● Lack of privacy

● Patriarchal society

● Work stressors

● Long term illnesses

● Financial strain and losses

● Covid 19

● Urbanization

● Substance use disorder

● Dysfunctional family life

● Lack of support

Covid-19 has taken a toll on the mental health of Saudi residents. The feeling of social isolation, anxiety, and helplessness has increased. Loss of loved ones, financial losses, workplace stress, and grief has worsened preexisting mental health problems and have caused many new ones. Moreover, Covid itself causes agitation, psychosis, depression, and extreme anxiety. These have taken a toll on mental health with increased incidence of diseases. Lack of privacy is a very significant factor as the Saudi Arabian custom of involving the family in all healthcare matters results in anxiety and people being reluctant to seek help.

Substance use disorder:

Increased anxiety and depression have resulted in increased nicotine and alcohol dependence. People tend to abuse recreational drugs to forget their worries. The most commonly used substances among Saudis are amphetamines, heroin, alcohol, and cannabis, and a majority of sufferers are addicted to multiple substances. There has been an increase in the use of amphetamines and heroin. If you are reading this, you may be worried about your or a loved one's mental health. Please do not hesitate to seek help. Mental disorders are treatable, and earlier diagnosis is the key to a good functional outcome.

The incidence of intravenous drug use is underreported because of the stigmas attached to it and harsher corporal punishments. Substance use has resulted in a high incidence of HIV, hepatitis B, and C virus.

Intimate partner violence and post-traumatic stress disorder

Saudi Arabia has a predominantly patriarchal society. Intimate partner violence is often underreported, and there has been little encouragement about reporting cases of physical, verbal, mental, or sexual abuse. As a result, there is a high incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety in the female population who feel anxious, deserted and feel like they have no options. There is an increased risk of suicide, and the prototype is the middle-aged Saudi woman who presents after ingesting a poisonous substance. This suicide occurs due to the Arab culture and its beliefs, which can dictate privacy and stigmatize mental health. Please remember that you are not alone. We are here to provide every possible help and are just a phone call away.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorders:

The kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a high incidence of obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder. Early childhood stressors, a strict patriarchal society, lack of privacy, and feelings of shame all result in suppressed emotions with increased prevalence of OCD and panic disorders.

Consequences of mental health disorders:

There has been a huge impact of mental health disorders on the quality of life. People, especially youth, have started having increased alcohol and drug use, insomnia, and anxiety. It

is particularly significant in the youth receiving education or who are employed. The cost is money lost and time lost from school, university, and work. Young people with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues often have trouble finding help. According to a recent study, approximately 37% of people faced social stigma while being treated or diagnosed with a mental health disorder.

Mental illness is still stigmatized, and mental health counselors, psychiatrists, and psychologists are not very commonly available. Moreover, Islamic laws do not promote early referral for mental health, and families often do not comprehend the seriousness of the situation or are reluctant to seek help letting people suffer in silence. Consequently, high financial costs are associated with mental illness due to the loss of productivity that results, as well as the mortality cost.

Treatment of mental health disorders:

If you are reading this article, you may be worried that you or your loved one is suffering from anxiety or other mental health disorders. Remember, depression and other mental health disorders are treatable. You can improve the quality of your life with the support of our licensed therapists. Remember, we are just a phone or a click away. Our licensed healthcare professionals are ready to provide you with the help you need to heal in the privacy of your own home. We are here to listen to you and help you 24/7. Please, do not hesitate to reach out. Your happiness and recovery are just a phone call away.