Mental health crisis may cost Morocco more than $800 million annually, researchers say

Depression could cost Morocco nearly $19 billion over the next quarter century, with annual economic losses expected to exceed $800 million for much of the period, according to a study published in the journal Nature Medicine.

Researchers estimate that depression will cost Morocco approximately $18.7 billion between 2025 and 2050, representing an average economic burden of $434 per person over the 25-year period.

The projections are based on a global macroeconomic model that measures how depression affects labor force participation, worker productivity, investment, and long-term economic growth.

The study, which examined 154 countries, projects Morocco’s annual losses will rise from $736.4 million in 2025 to $806.4 million in 2030, increasing further to $822.7 million in 2035 before peaking at $834.2 million in 2040.

Although losses are expected to ease slightly thereafter—to $830.1 million in 2045 and $812 million by 2050—they are projected to remain well above current levels.

Researchers estimate Morocco’s cumulative losses could range between $13.6 billion and $26.7 billion, depending on different modeling scenarios. Overall, depression is projected to reduce the country’s economic output by approximately 0.5% of GDP over the study period.

Using data from the Global Burden of Disease study, the researchers estimated that the average depressive episode in Morocco lasts 1.04 years.

Unlike studies that focus primarily on healthcare costs, the analysis examines the broader macroeconomic consequences of depression. It concludes that the condition reduces labor force participation, lowers productivity among those who remain employed, and slows capital accumulation, ultimately weakening economic growth over time.

Globally, the study estimates that depression could cost the world economy $18.9 trillion between 2025 and 2050 if current trends persist.

The largest relative economic losses are expected in lower-middle-income countries, where rapidly growing populations, limited access to mental health services, and shortages of treatment resources amplify the condition’s economic impact.

The researchers argue that expanding access to prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment would not only improve health outcomes but also generate substantial economic benefits.

They conclude that governments should view investment in mental health as an economic policy priority, rather than solely as a healthcare expenditure, given its potential to strengthen productivity, labor participation, and long-term economic growth.