Mental Health Perceptions in the Gulf: What Teens Think

Mental health is a big deal globally, and it's often overlooked in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. A digital campaign by the Gulf Health Council aimed to change this by targeting adolescents across four popular social media platforms: TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and X. The campaign collected over 2, 146 comments, which were analyzed to understand how GCC teens feel about mental health. Many comments showed a startling lack of awareness. Some people didn't even believe mental illness existed, or they thought it was a sign of weakness or moral failure. There were also signs of stigma and discrimination against those struggling with mental health issues. Some comments did highlight the need for better support and understanding. The findings reveal a critical gap in mental health knowledge and support. It's clear that more needs to be done to reduce stigma and make mental healthcare more accessible. This means working together—from schools to communities to healthcare providers—to create a supportive environment for those dealing with mental health challenges. Education and open conversations can go a long way in changing perceptions. It's important to understand that mental health isn't a choice or a sign of weakness; it's a real health issue that needs to be taken seriously.