Tanzanian Youth Excel in Mental Resilience According to New Study

The Mental State of the World 2024 report indicates that Tanzanian youth exhibit superior mental resilience, achieving the highest mental well-being scores globally among 76 nations surveyed. The research, conducted by Sapien Labs, reveals numerous factors contributing to this phenomenon, including limited exposure to harmful substances and a strong sense of community. However, as challenges arise with technological and economic shifts, proactive measures are necessary to sustain this resilience.

The Mental State of the World 2024 report indicates that Tanzanian youth excel in mental resilience, showcasing the highest mental well-being scores among 76 surveyed nations globally. Released by Sapien Labs, a renowned mental health research organization, the findings underscore Tanzania’s unique position in fostering mental health.

The research was conducted at the Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology in Arusha, where over 5,000 participants from various Tanzanian tribes and geographies contributed to the largest ongoing human brain study in Africa. Data collected revealed that Tanzanian young adults achieved an average Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) score exceeding 70, a significant achievement compared to global averages where the youth generally score lower than older adults.

Notably, only 15 out of 79 countries had average MHQ scores surpassing 50, and Tanzania is the only nation where the young adult score is above 65. Contrary to this positive trend, Western youth have experienced a drastic decline in mental well-being since 2019. Factors such as poor emotional regulation and relationship challenges characterize this worsening trend.

Several elements contribute to Tanzania’s favorable mental health statistics among youth, including limited consumption of ultra-processed foods, a ban on single-use plastics, reduced exposure to industrial toxins, and a predominant economy focused on tourism and agriculture. Additionally, diminished smartphone usage and lower internet access have resulted in reduced screen time for Tanzanian youth.

Dr. Tara Thiagarajan, the Founder and Chief Scientist at Sapien Labs, emphasizes the importance of safeguarding Africa’s mental health assets in light of rapid technological and economic changes. She insists that the youth of Africa will play a crucial role in the global economy and that proactive measures are needed to sustain their mental resilience amidst urbanization and digital influence.

The report points out a concerning generational divide in mental health, with older adults thriving while younger adults face increasing distress. The transition of older generations out of the workforce coupled with the inadequacies of the younger workforce may lead to diminished productivity and heightened societal issues, including anxiety and interpersonal conflict.

To secure the mental resilience of its youth, Tanzania must learn from global patterns and act decisively to address emerging challenges as its society evolves. This presents both an opportunity and a call to action to cultivate positive mental health outcomes for future generations in the country.

The Mental State of the World 2024 report reveals the exemplary mental resilience of Tanzanian youth, attributed to various socio-cultural and environmental factors. Despite strong figures in comparison to global trends, there remains a need for vigilant protection of these mental health advantages as Tanzania progresses. Dr. Thiagarajan’s insights highlight the importance of maintaining these strengths amidst inevitable socio-economic changes for the continued well-being of future generations in Tanzania.

Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz