Why mental health treatment remains out of reach for many Kenyans

For patients who require long-term medication, the financial burden can be overwhelming. Some are forced to skip doses, delay treatment or stop treatment altogether because they cannot afford the medication they need. Wangari, who has witnessed the challenges faced by people seeking mental healthcare, says the cost of medication remains a major concern for many families.

"Mental health  is  expensive. It goes as much as 500,000 plus but if you go to mathare it's cheaper, there injections like  invega can cost 18,000 to 20,000 maybe in Mathare it can be 15,000 to 17,0000.” Esther Wangari, Mental health advocate explained.

She also noted that mental health medication affects individuals differently, meaning treatment that works for one patient may not necessarily work for another.

"Medication responds differently from one person to another. What works for me may not work for someone else," she added.

According to Wangari, many people continue to suffer in silence, unable to access professional mental healthcare due to financial constraints. She believes that making medication more affordable and improving access to mental health services would help more people receive the support they need.

Mental health advocates continue to call for increased investment in mental healthcare, including subsidized medication, expanded services and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing stigma.

As the demand for mental health services continues to rise, patients and their families hope that treatment will become more affordable and accessible, ensuring that no one is denied care because of cost.