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Within the bustling district of Yopougon, famous for its commercial energy and lively social life, an understated change is unfolding. Locally, hairdressers are embracing roles as emotional wellness supporters, offering supportive conversations alongside haircuts.

An Innovator in Social Aid

The stylist, 49 years old, has dedicated two decades not only cutting and styling locks but also giving mental health advice to her customers. Someone who left school early, Tano once worked as a financial clerk before choosing her path in the beauty industry.

“Avoid negative thoughts,” she advised a concerned young person stressed about poor results. “If you don’t succeed, how is it possible to believe that everything is lost in life?”

Psychological Care in the Region: An Unspoken Subject

According to the global health body, in excess of millions of residents in the continent suffer from mental health problems. But, counseling is limited, with merely 1.4 mental health workers on hand per each a large population.

Throughout African-descendant populations, hairdressing salons have become safe spaces, particularly in localities with scarce availability of therapy services.

Heal by Hair: A Program Bringing Change

A nonprofit organization, working in one country, another nation, and a third location, started the Heal by Hair project. According to the program's creator, Marie-Alix de Putter, in excess of 400 hairdressers received instruction over the past two years to act as mental health ambassadors, reaching over many individuals.

In the coming years, the goal is to prepare in excess of numerous professionals across multiple nations.

‘The Trust Is Already There’

The initiative originated due to a personal loss. In 2012, she lost her husband while on a trip her home country her homeland. The event remains unsolved.

“I passed the initial evening after losing my husband alongside my stylist,” she recalled. “The hairdresser became the person I trusted completely since you are simply in the presence of people and there's uncertainty what happened.”

Inspired by her story, the organization completed a research project across multiple African states. The results indicated that most participants revealed sharing with their beauticians, and over 90% of hairdressers said that customers had asked for advice.

Training and Support

The program involves a free, intensive short-term training with psychiatrists and counselors who teach participants about active listening, violence against women, symptoms of mental strain, and fundamental psychological concepts. After completion, they are evaluated before obtaining a certificate.

“The course proved effective … I received my certificate and these tools,” said another hairdresser, pointing to a mental health book in her salon in a working-class area.

During six months, trainees receive continuous assistance through peer groups and connections with a mental health service network. If a customer discloses complex problems, beauticians can direct them to mental health experts, or in cases of family conflict, to the authorities.

Difficulties and Achievements

Initially, resources for the project relied on de Putter’s savings, but now, philanthropists and agencies like an international fund are contributing. However, resources remain limited for the scale of the task facing the group's compact crew of 17 paid staff and about supporters.

Despite these difficulties, participants report tales of happiness and improvement. In one country, a participant employed someone who had been in a treatment center, giving social rehabilitation.

“Often after an illness and you've received care, society labels you have problems,” noted the founder. “However, if you are employed and someone who accepts to support you, you get out of the taboo.”

One more stylist left her situation because she was a victim of violence, but now helps people. In some communities, stylists say that several gentlemen have begun to approach for advice.

Pride and Purpose

Among the stylists, is present a widespread feeling of satisfaction over their new role as a source of comfort in their communities.

“When individuals visit explain their problems to me, it’s a pride for me too as I understand that I am an ear for an individual,” said Gueu. “I reflect that we all need someone.”

“For many participants, this is the premier validation as a leader in their society and a supporter,” said de Putter. “The participants express to us: ‘In the past I merely styling, now I provide care.’”