Somalia has a serious lack of professional psychiatrist. Consequently, many Somalis are reverting to traditional treatments for different ailments, including mental health problems.
The country has suffered decades of internal hostilities and civil war. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Horn of Africa nation only boasts of three trained psychiatrists.
Now, patients have to seek help from exorcists such as the 70-year old Aden Igaal. He incorporates the use of a hyena in his treatment.
Hordes of patients are trooping into his clinic for the much-needed treatment. Somalis believe that hyenas are capable of devouring evil spirits.
Locals have nicknamed him “Dr. Hyena.” Igaal said, “I got into this line of work when a traditional healer treated my sister. Therefore, I looked for a hyena to help me in my work.”
He spent $1,200 on a hyena pup. Afterward, Igaal christened the pup Ali before setting up his shop. Each patient pays $10 per session.
Nevertheless, Abdirahman Ali Awale, a professional psychiatric nurse, says he would rather advice patients to seek clinical medication instead of rushing to traditional treatment.