From promise to practice: artificial intelligence in mental health care in the MENA region - Takeaways - MDSpire

From promise to practice: artificial intelligence in mental health care in the MENA region

  • By

  • Sara El Hajj

  • Ahmad Nsouli

  • Mohamad Wehbe

  • George Saad

  • Fadi T. Maalouf

  • July 15, 2026

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  • 1

    Mental health disorders affect up to 40% of adults in the MENA region, with treatment gaps ranging from 80-95% due to various barriers.

  • 2

    AI tools like large language models and psychotherapy chatbots can provide scalable mental health support through screening and brief interventions.

  • 3

    User acceptance of AI in mental health is paradoxical, as stigma drives reliance on anonymous tools while concerns about trust limit their use.

  • 4

    Current AI systems in mental health are insufficiently adapted to the MENA context, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive approaches.

  • 5

    AI should complement human clinicians in mental health care, ensuring safe, effective, and culturally appropriate support.

Original Source(s)

From promise to practice: artificial intelligence in mental health care in the MENA region

  • by Sara El Hajj, Ahmad Nsouli, Mohamad Wehbe, George Saad, Fadi T. Maalouf

  • July 15, 2026

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