Imagine the terror of being ensnared in a dangerous cult or the heartbreaking tragedy of a young mother who murders her own infant. These chilling events have recently shaken our society, exposing an urgent need to address the underlying issue of mental health in Kenya. This crisis demands our full attention, as it affects millions and leaves a trail of devastation in its wake.
In the harrowing case of Pastor Paul Mackenzie's cult, we witnessed followers placing their unwavering trust in a manipulative leader, ultimately leading to their own untimely deaths. Meanwhile, the devastating story of a mother in Kitengela, who not only killed her infant child but also consumed the child's organs, left us reeling in shock.
However, instead of merely reacting with outrage and moving on, we must delve deeper into the mental state of those involved in these disturbing incidents. By understanding the psychological factors that drive such extreme actions, we can begin to address the systemic issues that plague our communities.
Recent reports on mental health in Kenya paint a grim picture. The Ministry of Health's 2019 task force report on mental health stated that the increasing trend of suicide, gender-based violence and other mental health conditions highlight unmet societal needs. Furthermore, stigma and discrimination exacerbate these problems, marginalising those with mental health conditions and disabilities.
Alarmingly, it is estimated that one in every four Kenyans (approximately 11.5 million people) lives with a mental health condition. The Covid-19 pandemic only worsened the situation, causing a surge in depression, anxiety, gender-based violence and suicide.
A particularly concerning finding is that more men than women suffer from mental illnesses and die as a result. The government is now facing calls to declare the rise in mental illness a national disaster.
We must equip our communities with the knowledge to identify mental illnesses and support family members and friends who care for those affected. Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health will open up crucial discourse on identifying and treating these conditions.
Community education on mental health, triggers, and systemic inadequacies is crucial. Addressing financial stress and coping mechanisms helps combat depression, anxiety and suicide beyond genetic predisposition. By prioritising mental wellness in our homes, schools and workplaces, we can nurture a healthy and productive population.
As we confront the sobering reality of mental health in Kenya, we must ask ourselves: What can we do to create a more compassionate, understanding, and supportive society for those struggling with mental health issues?
Now is the time to break the silence and shine a light on the critical issue of mental health in Kenya. Only then can we begin to heal our nation and provide hope for those who struggle daily with these invisible battles.
To effectively address mental health, we must emphasise early intervention and prevention for children and adolescents through school curriculums. Teachers should be trained to identify distress signs and provide support.
Employers must prioritise mental health by implementing policies promoting work-life balance, such as flexible hours, resources and open, supportive environments.
Investing in accessible, affordable community-based mental health services is crucial, including expanding facilities, training professionals, and improving care quality. This infrastructure will not only help those suffering but also prevent future crises.
Lastly, we must remember that addressing mental health issues in Kenya is a collective responsibility. Each one of us can play a role in breaking the stigma and supporting those who struggle with mental health conditions. This can be as simple as lending a listening ear to someone in need, advocating better mental health policies, or even sharing your own story to inspire others.
As we mark Mental Health Awareness Month, which is celebrated in May, we can all pull together to create a future where mental health is no longer a silent crisis but a well-understood and well-supported aspect of our society.
Let us embrace this challenge and work towards a healthier, more compassionate Kenya that leaves no one behind in the pursuit of mental well-being.
Executive director, Kilimani Project Foundation. [email protected]
