BEIRUT — Lebanon’s National Mental Health Programme Director at the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Rabih Shamahy, warned of what he described as a “silent pandemic” affecting mental health worldwide, with adolescents among the most impacted groups.

Speaking on the LBCI program Jadal, Dr. Shamahy said the current generation of young people is growing up amid unprecedented social, political, climate, and digital transformations, placing significant psychological pressure on adolescents and young adults.

He noted that these overlapping crises have contributed to rising mental health challenges that often go unnoticed or untreated.

Dr. Shamahy highlighted the growing demand for mental health support services in Lebanon, revealing that the national mental health and suicide prevention hotline, “1564,” received approximately 12,800 calls in 2025 alone.

According to him, around 30 percent of callers were under the age of 24, showing the vulnerability of young people and the scale of mental health needs within this age group.

He stressed the importance of early intervention, accessible support services, and increased public awareness to address mental health issues before they escalate.

He also called for stronger coordination between families, schools, health institutions, and policymakers to ensure adolescents have the tools and resources needed to cope with ongoing pressures.

The Ministry of Public Health has repeatedly emphasized that mental health is a public health priority, particularly as Lebanon continues to face economic and social strain.