Salons as Community Sanctuaries

Hair salons in West Africa are more than just places for styling; they are vital social hubs where people, particularly women, share their lives in a trusted and confidential environment. This unique setting makes them ideal for providing discreet mental health support.

How the Training Works

Hairdressers are not being trained to be therapists. Instead, they receive short, culturally-aware courses based on World Health Organization guidelines. The training focuses on:

• Active Listening: Learning how to listen compassionately without judgment.

• Distress Recognition: Identifying signs of common mental health challenges like depression and anxiety.

• Referral Pathways: Guiding clients toward professional help when possible.

As hairdresser Adjoua Catherine Tano noted in a report by Le Monde, stylists have long been informal confidantes. This program formalizes that role, giving them the basic tools to help effectively and safely.