Cairo – A debate is brewing over the prevalence of mental health disorders in Egypt, as a prominent psychiatrist challenges recently cited statistics. Dr. Mohab Mojahed, a Senate member and consultant psychiatrist, questioned the accuracy of figures suggesting 25% of egyptians suffer from a psychological disorder during a televised interview on Tuesday, arguing that everyday stressors are often conflated with clinical illness. The discussion comes as mental health awareness grows within egyptian society, yet significant barriers to access and pervasive stigma remain [[1]].
كتب : محمد شاكر
10:25 م
02/12/2025
A leading mental health expert is questioning the accuracy of statistics suggesting that a quarter of Egyptians suffer from a psychological disorder, arguing that the symptoms of mental illness often overlap with the everyday challenges of life.
Dr. Mohab Mojahed, a consultant psychiatrist and member of the Senate, made the comments during an appearance on the “Harsh Questions” program hosted by Magdy El-Gelad, editor-in-chief of the Ona Press and Media Foundation, which includes websites such as Masrawy, Yalla Kora, El-Konstlo, and Shift.
“Mental illness is like organic disease,” Mojahed said. “Can you say that 25% of Egyptians suffer from a specific organic disease?” He suggested that such studies are more geared toward generating media attention than providing accurate health data.
Mojahed drew a parallel to the common cold, noting that when asked if someone has ever been sick, they might respond they’ve never been ill, failing to acknowledge a simple cold. He explained that generalized anxiety disorder is similarly widespread, affecting nearly everyone at some point. This observation underscores the prevalence of common mental health experiences.
While acknowledging that mental illnesses are very common, Mojahed emphasized that the number of diagnosed cases represents only a small fraction of those actually affected. He attributed this disparity to the stigma surrounding seeking help from a mental health professional in Egypt, which prevents many from coming forward.
However, Mojahed also noted a growing segment of Egyptian society that has overcome this stigma, with some individuals even seeking psychiatric care more frequently than necessary. He pointed out that organic illnesses are generally easier to diagnose due to the greater availability of general practitioners compared to psychiatrists.
During the interview, Mojahed also discussed his appointment to the Senate, the impact of the economic crisis on the Egyptian psyche, and offered advice on maintaining psychological balance. The conversation highlights the increasing focus on mental wellbeing within Egyptian society.
