8 January 2024 – Years of conflict have cast a dark shadow on Yemen, both on its physical infrastructure and on the health and well-being of its people. Mental health has been overlooked for far too long, and now a hidden crisis is festering.

Mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services are lacking in many parts of the country, owing to shortages of trained professionals and treatment facilities. Even where such services are available, people may feel unable to access them owing to social disapproval.

An estimated 7 million people, about a quarter of Yemen’s population, grapple with psychological trauma and stress inflicted by the ongoing conflict. All require mental health support, yet only 120 000 of this number have consistent access to services.