By Editor@Truth mediasl

Freetown, 13th October 2025- Sierra Leone has emerged as the most worried nation on Earth, according to a new global survey by Gallup that paints a difficult reality of emotional well-being across Sub-Saharan Africa. With 67% of adults reporting daily worry, Sierra Leone leads a list dominated by African nations grappling with economic uncertainty, social instability, and post-pandemic recovery fatigue.

The survey, which tracked self-reported experiences of worry, anger, sadness, and physical pain, places Sierra Leone just ahead of neighboring Guinea (66%), followed by Malta and Rwanda (both at 61%). In total, nine of the top 11 countries with the highest levels of daily worry are in Sub-Saharan Africa, underscoring the region’s emotional toll amid persistent challenges.

For Sierra Leoneans, the findings reflect a lived reality. From rising food prices and youth unemployment to fragile healthcare systems, the emotional weight of daily survival is profound. The country also ranked among the top 10 globally for anger, with more than a third of adults reporting frequent feelings of frustration.

The Gallup report notes that while global negative emotions have declined from their pandemic-era peak, they remain disproportionately high in countries affected by violence and conflict. Crucially, this emotional burden persists even after adjusting the GDP, suggesting that economic growth alone does not guarantee emotional recovery.

In Sierra Leone, the worry index may also reflect deeper structural issues: limited access to mental health services, underemployment, and a lack of social safety nets. The country’s youth, who make up the majority of the population, face a particularly steep climb, many navigating life without stable income, educational opportunities, or reliable healthcare.

The implications are far-reaching. Emotional distress affects productivity, civic engagement, and even physical health. As Sierra Leone pushes forward with reforms in governance, infrastructure, and public service delivery, experts who have graced Truth Media’s studios say emotional well-being must be part of the national conversation.

While the numbers are stark, they also offer a roadmap. Investing in mental health services, expanding youth employment programs, and strengthening community support systems could help turn the tide.