🔗 Share this article Breaking Misconceptions: The Way Beauticians in West Africa Address Mental Health Concerns In the energetic district of this area, known for its business drive and active nightlife, a subtle change is taking place. Here, beauticians are embracing roles as mental health counselors, providing supportive conversations in addition to haircuts. A Trailblazer in Local Assistance Adjoua Catherine Tano, a seasoned hairdresser, has dedicated a long career not just working on locks but additionally providing psychological support to her patrons. A school dropout, Tano once worked as a bank cashier before choosing her path in hairdressing. “Stay positive,” she advised a worried student fearing failing exams. “If you don’t succeed, how is it possible to believe that everything is lost in life?” Mental Health in the Continent: An Unspoken Subject Based on data from the WHO, over 116 million people in Africa suffer from psychological issues. Yet, therapy is scarce, with merely very few specialists present for every a large population. Throughout local neighborhoods, beauty shops are now safe spaces, notably in regions with scarce options for mental health care. Healing Through Hair: A Program Making a Difference A nonprofit organization, operating in Cameroon, another nation, and Togo, started the Hairdresser Healing project. Per the program's creator, the founder, in excess of 400 hairdressers received instruction during the previous couple of years to function as mental health ambassadors, reaching in excess of many individuals. By 2030, the aim is to prepare in excess of numerous professionals across 20 countries. ‘The Trust Is Already There Present’ The initiative was inspired from a deeply personal tragedy. In 2012, she lost her husband when on a trip her native Cameroon. The case remains unsolved. “I endured my first night in grief with my hairdresser,” the founder said. “She was the person I confided in the most since you are simply encircled by individuals and it's unclear who could have done this.” Motivated by her story, the organization conducted a recent survey across several French-speaking nations. The findings indicated that a large majority confessed to confiding in their hairdressers, and in excess of nearly all stylists reported that patrons had asked for advice. Training and Support The project includes a no-cost, comprehensive three-day program with psychiatrists and advisors who teach trainees about effective communication, domestic abuse, indicators of emotional distress, and fundamental psychology theories. After completion, they are evaluated before being awarded a credential. “The program proved effective … I earned my qualification and this knowledge,” commented another hairdresser, referencing a mental health book in her salon in a local neighborhood. Over six months, trainees obtain follow-up help through community circles and availability of a psychological referral system. If a patron shares serious issues, beauticians can refer them to qualified therapists, or in cases of family conflict, to the authorities. Difficulties and Achievements Initially, resources for the project relied on personal funds, but currently, private donors and agencies like a support agency are contributing. Nevertheless, resources remain limited for the volume of demand facing the group's compact crew of 17 paid staff and about supporters. Despite these difficulties, participants report accounts of success and improvement. Locally, a participant employed someone who had been in a mental health facility, providing a fresh start. “Frequently after an illness and you've received care, others claim you’re crazy,” noted de Putter. “So if you have a job and someone who accepts to guide you, you get out of the taboo.” One more stylist escaped her situation as she was a victim of violence, but today helps people. In some communities, beauticians report that a few men have begun to approach for advice. A Sense of Fulfillment Across the hairdressers, there is a widespread feeling of accomplishment over their emergence as a source of psychological aid in their local areas. “When individuals visit share their issues to me, I feel proud for me too because I understand that I am an ear for someone,” said Gueu. “I reflect that each person needs a confidant.” “For a lot of hairdressers, it’s their first validation as a figurehead in their community and a protector,” noted the founder. “These women express to us: ‘Before I merely styling, currently I do healing.’”