If there is a topic that Kenyans approach with caution is mental health. To be honest, talking about mental health is likened to walking on egg shells within the Kenyan context. Yes, the attitudes towards this important topic has shifted from a taboo one to a more sympathetic one. The Kenyan society is structured in a manner that when people express their struggles with mental health they are either viewed as weak or difficult people. The government and relevant stakeholders have tried towards educating people on the importance of mental health and speaking up. However these efforts are not bettering the statistics because the real issues are overlooked.
Foremost, not all the fourty-seven counties in the country are equipped with state-standard mental health institutions that individuals can seek help. As it is, there are roughly five public health entities that provide the crucial services- MTRH, Kenyatta National Hospital, Mathare National Teaching Refferal Hospital, Chiromo among others. Kenyans are therefore left to suffer as many cannot afford these expensive services in private entities. Another reason is that the Kenyan social media space is not conducive and it worsens the plight of those with mental health illnesses. Although the owners and developers of these sites have put in measures to create a conducive online space, the government should do more towards safeguarding its citizens.
The outcome of these gaps is that those with mental health issues are forced to suffer in silence or find unorthodox means of surviving. Something noteworthy is that these gaps have significantly contributed to the increase in Kenya’s suicide rate. The country’s suicide rate is 6.1 per 100.000 according to a report by World Health Organization. Although the government has rolled out Suicide Prevention Strategy Plan for 2021-2026, there are things we can do at personal levels.
This a picture I took after a muddy-morning run. Since I struggle with my mental health sometimes, I decided to better things by engaging in physical exercises, eating healthy and meditating. These three things might sound trivial for someone whose mental health is perfect, however, for someone who struggles, these are the real deal if you commit to them.
Kenyans are becoming more aware that mental health is as important as the physical wellness. However most still do not grasp the complexities of it. Hence, speak up for yourself, however at an individual level, be kind enough with yourself, and make important adjustments at a personal level as you seek professional help.
The key takeaway is-Yes Dare Say It, DO NOT be silenced because mental health is as important as physical health.
Written by
Awuor Ojee