Drivers of youth mental health and wellbeing: A nationwide cross-sectional study in Morocco

Background: Mental health struggles disproportionately affect young people, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. Understanding key drivers of youth mental health is essential for designing effective policies and programs to close the mental health gap. This study aims to describe the factors influencing mental health and well-being among Moroccan youth. Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional online survey conducted across all 12 regions in Morocco, using stratified random sampling. Moroccan youth aged 18 to 24 were included. Data were collected using a questionnaire informed by and adapted from the WHO Adolescent Wellbeing Framework, distributed through youth-serving organizations. Results: A total of 1,182 participants were included (mean age 20.5 years, 68.2% female, 85.7% from urban settings). Regarding health and nutrition, 46.3% valued sleep, 59.7% emphasized physical health, 53.1% highlighted access to quality healthcare, and 56.5% prioritized clean air. In terms of connectedness and contribution, 75.7% rated family relationships as critical to their well-being, while 42.5% emphasized positive peer relationships. Regarding safety and supportive environments, 64.7% considered personal safety essential, 70% prioritized the fulfillment of basic needs, and 63.7% valued personal information protection. For education and competence, 54.4% emphasized learning opportunities and 62.2% identified self-confidence as key drivers. Regarding agency and resilience, 59.4% valued independence, 68.5% stressed having a sense of purpose, and 55% identified hope and optimism as key to their well-being. In digital well-being, 37.7% believed social media helped maintain connections, 38% viewed it as a learning tool, while 31.6% reported it as a source of stress and anxiety. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into priority drivers of youth mental health in Morocco which should be the target for future interventions aiming to promote youth well-being. The findings contribute to the limited data on youth mental health in LMICs, highlighting the urgency for comprehensive mental health services and further research.