RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is experiencing a shift in perceptions of mental health, driven by younger generations and supported by continuous education and outreach programs.

“In the past 20-30 years, there has been a huge advancement in the outlook towards mental health,” said Dr. Majid Al-Desouki, consultant psychiatrist and founder of Psyter, a Saudi mental health app.

In previous decades, mental health was considered a taboo topic, often misunderstood as a sign of weakness or moral failing.

Dr. Al-Desouki told Arab News about how in the past, this misunderstanding sometimes led to drastic measures taken against individuals who exhibited signs of mental illness.

“Previously people would be embarrassed to admit that they had a mental health problem and would do their best to make it hidden,” said Dr. Al-Desouki.

“Now people don’t have a problem waiting in the waiting area in the mental health clinic or mentioning to their friends ‘I’ve seen this professional, and I recommend them to you,’” he said.

The National Center for Mental Health Promotion plays a central role in Saudi Arabia’s mental health landscape.

Established in 2019 to advance awareness, education, and accessibility, it is one of the key government-backed organizations dedicated to tackling stigma and expanding support services.

The center provides consultations through its mental health service app, Qareboon, conducts training courses, and works to enhance support across rural and urban areas through psychological assistance programs and community activities.

According to Sara Al-Duhayan, a 23-year-old student who has sought mental health support and witnessed the changes in perceptions in Saudi firsthand, attitudes have shifted even within families.

 “Five or so years ago, it was impossible for (my family) to acknowledge any sort of mental issue,” Al-Duhayan said.

“Now their viewpoint has changed. They realize it’s a normal thing for people to go through,” she added.

A key factor in this transformation is accessibility. Digital tools like Psyter and Qareboon have revolutionized how mental health support is provided in Saudi Arabia.

Psyter offers virtual therapy sessions, while Qareboon provides localized mental health resources and professional guidance. These platforms reduce the stigma of seeking help by allowing individuals to access support privately and conveniently.

Dr. Al-Desouki highlighted the practical benefits of such platforms, noting that for many people in rural areas, traveling to mental health clinics can be challenging due to time and distance.

“When it comes to geographical distance, people living in the extreme north of the country or the extreme south, if they’re in a village around Riyadh or any other city they’re not going to be able to find care anywhere near them,” Al-Desouki said.

“There must be a better way to help these people without having them either take a plane or drive and put themselves at risk of accidents just for an appointment,” he adds.

Digital tools offer a solution by saving time and bridging geographical gaps, making it easier for individuals to access support regardless of location.

Awareness campaigns have significantly reduced stigma. The National Center for the Promotion of Mental Health has promoted mental well-being through educational initiatives, community activities, and workplace programs across public and private sectors.

“Everyone is so much more aware about it,” said Al-Duhayan. “People encourage others to seek therapy and aren’t embarrassed to share their experiences.”

This shift is a testament to the effectiveness of continuous education and outreach programs.

Generational differences further illustrate the cultural shift. Younger Saudis, in particular, are at the forefront of this change, according to Dr. Al-Desouki. They openly discuss their struggles and actively seek help.

“A big reason for the change in perception is because a lot of the population is a younger generation who are more open to accessing mental health care and bettering themselves in that respect,” said Dr. Al-Desouki.

Older generations are also beginning to adopt a more accepting view of mental health. “Even that age group has changed in perception somewhat over the years,” he added.

Dr. Al-Desouki stressed the importance of maintaining the momentum of reducing stigma around mental health. “If you can prevent mental illness, the outcomes are much better than waiting for a condition to develop,” he said. “And a cornerstone of prevention is education.”

As Saudi Arabia continues educating its citizens and expanding mental health care access, it paves the way for a future where mental health is more widely embraced.

Sustained efforts in awareness and accessibility will ensure these changes endure, according to Dr. Al-Desouki.

“Mental health awareness is a continuous process; it shouldn’t stop,” he said.