Yopougon, the largest commune in Abidjan with a population of 1.5 million, is recognized for its vibrant entrepreneurial scene and nightlife, as well as being the origin of the comic character Aya de Yopougon. Amid this cultural backdrop, 49-year-old Adjoua Catherine Tano, a hairdresser, has carved out a unique role by providing mental health support in her community for over two decades.
Initially a school dropout, Tano transitioned from bank cashier to hairdresser and has since used her position to offer advice and a listening ear to clients. For instance, when a teenager expressed anxiety about failing exams, Tano encouraged her to maintain a positive outlook regardless of the outcome. Mental health issues are pervasive in Africa, affecting more than 116 million individuals, according to the World Health Organization, yet mental health services remain scarce, with only 1.4 mental health workers per 100,000 people.
In an effort to address this gap, the Bluemind Foundation has initiated the Heal by Hair program, which trains hairdressers—including Tano— to act as mental health ambassadors. Over the last two years, more than 400 hairdressers across Cameroon, Ivory Coast, and Togo have received training to support their clients, with ambitions to expand the program to 1,000 hairdressers in 20 countries by 2030. The training focuses on skills such as active listening and identifying signs of depression.
This initiative grew from the founder Marie-Alix de Putter’s personal experience, following the tragic murder of her husband in 2012. De Putter found solace in her hairdresser during this difficult time, highlighting the trust between clients and hair professionals. A study revealed that 77% of respondents confided in their hairdressers, showcasing the potential for this relationship to extend into emotional support.
Hairdressers in the program are advised to refer clients to psychologists or the police when necessary, addressing complexities such as domestic violence. Funding for the initiative initially stemmed from de Putter’s savings and has since garnered support from private donors. Despite limited resources, the program has yielded positive outcomes, fostering emotional recovery and social rehabilitation for participants.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/oct/05/we-all-need-someone-the-hairdressers-tackling-stigma-of-mental-heath-issues-in-west-africa