Sonko: Let’s support, not mock, those battling depression

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has urged Kenyans, especially the youth, to take mental health seriously and to stop using social media to bully or ridicule people battling depression.

Speaking a day after the burial of former TV journalist Kimani Mbugua, Sonko expressed deep sorrow over the loss and called for compassion towards those struggling with mental illness.

Sonko, who helped transport Kimani’s body from Mombasa to Montezuma Funeral Home in Nairobi and facilitated the funeral convoy to his final resting place, said the young journalist’s death should serve as a wake-up call.

“Kimani Mbugua is no longer with us. It’s painful to lose such a young soul,” Sonko said.

“Unfortunately, this is not the only case. A friend of mine from Parklands also took his own life and is being buried today, just a day after Kimani. Depression is real. People are going through a lot—from joblessness to family issues, bipolar conditions, poor working environments, and tough economic times.”

Sonko urged Kenyans to use social media responsibly and to show empathy instead of mockery.

“Let’s not take for granted what we have. Don’t bully people online or call them names until they feel intimidated or depressed. Some come online to express their struggles with depression, bipolar disorder, or financial problems. Instead of mocking them, let’s support them. What someone else is going through today, you might face tomorrow,” he said.

The former governor noted that Kimani’s case attracted attention because of his public profile but warned that many more people suffer in silence.

“Kimani’s story is in the limelight because he was a journalist, but how many more are suffering quietly? When people share their pain, we push them further into depression with our harsh words. It’s wrong and must stop,” he added.

Sonko also pledged continued support through his Sonko Rescue Team, saying it will keep assisting people in distress.

“For me and my team, we’ll keep helping whenever and wherever we can—from assisting the needy to standing with the bereaved. If you can’t help someone, at least don’t be the reason they give up on life,” he said.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 727,000 people worldwide died by suicide in 2021, underscoring the growing mental health crisis that continues to affect millions globally. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a comprehensive, multisectoral approach to prevent suicide.

It urges governments to integrate suicide prevention into national health and education policies, strengthen mental health services, and restrict access to means of self-harm such as pesticides, firearms, and certain medications.

 WHO also emphasizes the importance of early identification, treatment, and follow-up for people showing signs of distress.

Community awareness, media responsibility in reporting suicide, and school-based life skills education are also key measures.