Mental health research in the Middle East (2000–2025): bibliometric and scientometric insights into thematic trends and emerging domains

Abstract Background and objective Mental health has emerged as a critical public health concern across the Middle East, influenced by conflict, displacement, sociocultural factors, and limited health infrastructure. Despite growing research activity, a comprehensive mapping of regional scientific output has been lacking. Methods This bibliometric and scientometric analysis examined peer-reviewed journal articles on mental health in the Middle East from January 2000 to June 2025. Data were retrieved from Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed. Eligible publications were screened for regional affiliation and topical relevance. Bibliometric indicators were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and VOSviewer to evaluate authorship, institutional collaboration, country distribution, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic clusters. Results A total of 15,214 articles were identified across the three databases. Iran, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia accounted for the largest share of publications. Co-authorship and institutional networks revealed concentrated collaboration hubs. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identified five major thematic clusters focusing on trauma, anxiety, depression, stigma, and youth mental health, along with several emerging topics. Conclusions Mental health research in the Middle East has expanded substantially over the past 25 years, though notable geographic disparities and thematic gaps persist. Strengthening cross-national collaboration and developing context-specific interventions remain essential priorities.