Mental illness is one the factors dragging behind the wellbeing and productivity of a person, family and community as per Dr. Rashid Aman Kenya’s Health Chief Administrative Secretary.

“Mental health not only contribute to mental health care costs but also socio-economical drain to individuals, families and communities.”

Amidst economic struggles faced by Kenyans, a surge in mental illness is evident, with the numbers rising steadily. Currently, Kenya has an average Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) of 72 on a 300-point MHQ scale, ranking it fourth in Africa for the highest number of people experiencing distress and mental health challenges, totaling approximately 10.9 million individuals, similar to 23% of the population while Tanzania being the leading country with an average of 88 according to the Fourth Annual Report on Mental State of the World 2023.

The average MHQ score across 71 counties measured in 2023 was 65 on the 300-point MHQ scale.

The Kenya National Commission of Human Rights estimates 25% and 40% of outpatients and inpatients, respectively, seeking healthcare services in Kenya have mental health issues. Major cases including depression, substance and alcohol abuse, and anxiety disorders.

Recent social media reports have highlighted individuals like Kimani Mbugua, a former Citizen TV reporter, who are battling mental illness, with some resulting in tragic suicides. The Kenya Women Teachers Association (KEWOTA) sounded an alarm on May 6th about the rising prevalence of mental illness among teachers, citing over 60 reported suicides.” An estimate 30 pc of Kenyan teachers experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. Since 2022, we have lost over 69 teachers to suicide.” KEWOTA CEO, Benta Opande.

Despite governmental efforts outlined in the Kenya Mental Health Policy (2015-2030) and interventions by non-governmental organizations and Community Based Organizations like Kamili Mental Health Organization, challenges persist in effectively addressing mental health issues.

While we impose these responsibilities to the respective boards, families and communities on mental health, individuals also play a vital role in initiating mental stability as a lot of advocacy, awareness and education on mental health have been done. The other parties are only support systems in combating the crisis.

Witten by; Mapenzi Kitsao