A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study
This landmark study is the first comprehensive, nationally representative mapping of youth mental health drivers in Morocco. Led and authored by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Khalis, Oumnia Bouaddi, Jihad Bnimoussa (InspireCorp), and Imad Elbadisy. It interrogates the lived experiences of Moroccan youth ages 18–24, a demographic disproportionately affected by mental health struggles in low- and middle-income contexts.
Methods & Approach
The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional online survey across Morocco’s 12 regions, utilizing stratified random sampling and reaching more than 1,100 young people. Data collection was guided by the WHO Adolescent Wellbeing Framework, expanded to include digital wellbeing in recognition of emerging stressors.
Major Findings
Top drivers of youth mental health in Morocco:
Digital stress is rising: While digital platforms can help maintain connections and support learning, 31.6% of young people reported social media as a significant source of stress and anxiety.
Critical gaps: With just one psychologist per 200,000 people and urban-centric services, Morocco’s youth face systemic barriers to care. Protective factors—especially strong family support—are crucial for resilience.
Research Impact
The findings contributed to the published Being Initiative report, Mapping Youth Mental Health Landscapes: Local Insights from 13 Countries, used to inform funding priorities and ecosystem-building for scalable youth mental health solutions. Core data sets and youth perspectives from Morocco are now referenced in the global knowledge base, guiding prevention efforts, policy recommendations, and program design nationally and internationally.
Read the full Being Initiative global report:
