We’re kicking off this Developing Mental Wealth series with a trip to the Ivory Coast. We hear the incredible story of Marie-Alix de Putter, whose project Heal by Hair is training hairdressers as mental health first responders, making it easier for people to get support in a country where mental illness remains taboo.

Seyi and Radha meet founder Marie-Alix and hairdresser Esmel Semou. They learn about the concept of Ubuntu, which emphasises people’s interconnectedness, and how this is being applied to mental health in a way that stands in complete contrast to western traditions.

Developing Mental Wealth is a six-part series about community-based solutions to mental health issues, in parts of the world where circumstances can be the most challenging. The series is funded by the European Journalism Centre, through the Solutions Journalism Accelerator. This fund is supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

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Producer: Anna Staufenberg

Executive Producer: Samantha Psyk

Mixing & sound design: Anna Staufenberg

If you’re affected by the issues covered in this episode, in the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org

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