According to the Mental State of the World 2024 report by Sapien Labs, Tanzanian youth exhibit the highest mental resilience globally, achieving average MHQ scores surpassing 70. This success is attributed to a collective culture, reduced exposure to harmful substances, and late smartphone adoption. Nevertheless, as global pressures increase, it is vital for Tanzania to safeguard this mental resilience amidst changing circumstances.
A recent report, the Mental State of the World 2024, released by Sapien Labs, indicates that Tanzanian young adults display the strongest mental resilience globally. This notable achievement places Tanzania at the top of 76 surveyed countries, with the highest Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) scores among young adults. This report illustrates the emerging patterns of mental well-being across diverse populations.
Sapien Labs operates the Centre for Research of Brain and Mind (CEREBRAM) at the Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology, where extensive data collection from over 5,000 individuals across various Tanzanian tribes and regions has facilitated a deeper understanding of environmental influences on mental health. The report analyzed more than one million responses from populations globally, revealing significant insights into mental well-being trends.
While Tanzanian youth achieved impressive MHQ scores above 70, it is essential to recognize that these figures are still lower when compared to older adults worldwide. Young adults globally are generally displaying a decline in mind health relative to their older counterparts, with only 15 of 79 countries reporting an average MHQ score over 50. Tanzania stands alone with an average above 65, the lowest among older age groups.
The report contrasts Tanzania’s results with trends in Western countries, where youth mental health has markedly declined since 2019. Factors contributing to Tanzania’s superior youth mental resilience include limited access to ultra-processed foods and less exposure to harmful toxins, as well as a reduction in smartphone usage from a young age due to weaker internet infrastructure.
Moreover, Tanzania’s social culture, emphasizing family and community connections, enhances mental resilience among its youth. Dr. Tara Thiagarajan, Founder and Chief Scientist at Sapien Labs, emphasizes Africa’s unique advantage in promoting youth mental health amid rapid changes. She insists on the need for protective measures against potential declines in mental resilience stemming from urbanization and technological growth.
The report underscores the crucial role of strong community ties and face-to-face interactions, which have diminished in high-income countries over the past decade. As African nations, including Tanzania, embrace technology, there are pressing concerns that the mental health benefits among youth may diminish unless efforts are made to safeguard them.
As the workforce transitions with older adults retiring, a potential mismatch may arise with new generations unprepared for everyday stresses. This could foster increased anxiety, decreased productivity, and heightened societal challenges. Dr. Thiagarajan concludes that Tanzania’s current standing presents both a unique opportunity and a significant challenge to preserve the mental resilience of its youth in the face of changing global trends.
The Mental State of the World 2024 report highlights Tanzania’s exceptional position in global youth mental resilience, driven by its supportive cultural environment and limited exposure to modern pressures. However, the necessity to protect this resilience against the backdrop of evolving societal dynamics is crucial. By understanding and acting on the unique factors contributing to its youth’s well-being, Tanzania can address potential challenges and ensure sustained mental health benefits moving forward.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
