Kenyans have been urged to pay closer attention to their mental wellness, amid rising cases of mental health disorders, largely linked to drug and substance abuse and also the prevailing harsh economic conditions.
Speaking during a mental health awareness campaign organised by the African Centre of Rehabilitative Wellness and Awareness (ACRMA), medical psychologist Valentine Wangeci noted that stigma continues to prevent many people from openly discussing mental health challenges.
“Mental health affects all of us, but many people are afraid to talk about what they are going through. People cope differently with life situations and that is why struggles vary from one person to another,” she said.
Wangeci observed that while some individuals are able to manage stress, others experience extreme emotional distress, especially when faced with prolonged hardships, unemployment, family problems or substance addiction.
“You can easily access medical services, when you have a cough or a toothache, but when you are mentally distressed, where do you go? Whom do you talk to?,” she posed.
The medical psychologist warned that some of the early signs of mental health struggles include losing interest in activities one previously enjoyed, lack of happiness or fulfilment, emotional outbursts over trivial issues and persistent feelings of sadness or anxiety.
Wangeci further noted that many Kenyans continue to suffer in silence due to fear of discrimination and societal judgement, urging communities to normalize conversations around mental health, while encouraging the affected individuals to seek professional help.
According to the Elias Ndung’u, ACRMWA Director cases of depression, anxiety and substance-related disorders have been steadily increasing, particularly among young people and adults struggling with economic pressures and unemployment.
“Mental health issues are now a pandemic that needs to be addressed before we lose more people, that is why we are carrying out awareness campaigns across our counties to educate members of the public on mental wellness, emotional support systems and the importance of seeking counselling and rehabilitation services before conditions worsen,” he said.
Ndung’u called on both the national and county governments to invest more resources in mental healthcare services and awareness programmes, saying mental wellness is critical to building a productive and healthy society.
Meanwhile, ACRMA has established a Toll-free support line: 0800721923 to offer professional counselling, guidance and emotional support to individuals facing mental health challenges.
By Florence Kinyua
