Kenyans need to understand mental health

Kenyans need to understand mental health

Mental health is a major global concern, and Kenya ranks fourth in Africa with 1.9 million people affected by mental illness, with depression being the most common.

The Kenya Mental Health Policy (2015-2030) indicates that mental disorders are rapidly increasing in the country, with one in every four Kenyans experiencing mental illness at some point in their lives.

Mental health is crucial to a country's overall health and socioeconomic development, as it affects individual and community outcomes, such as lifestyle and education attainment. However, without prioritizing mental health, Kenya's quality of life is at risk.

The recently published Kenya National Bureau of Statistics report revealed that more men than women have suffered from mental illnesses. However, the causes of these mental illnesses were not specified.

Unfortunately, only a small percentage of people with mental health issues receive treatment in low and middle-income countries.

Stigma still plays a significant role in society's reception of mental health, causing those who suffer to continue to do so in silence.

Social media has provided a platform for mental health issues to gain exposure and has allowed the public to have conversations about mental wellness.

Despite this, the way mental illnesses are portrayed on social media remains a concern, with the use of colloquial language and simplified words such as 'insane' and 'mad' contributing to the stigmatization of mentally ill Kenyans.

Mental health is a public health concern that requires the attention of policymakers and agenda-setters within society.

Research provides an evidence base for policy and health initiatives to begin to change the fate of Kenyans.

Age and sex differences in mental illness reports provide the government with an opportunity to develop more targeted strategies, such as school-based programs to teach depression management strategies to students and the creation of easy and accessible mental wellness facilities.

Improving the community's knowledge of mental health issues will play a significant role in eradicating the stigma associated with seeking mental health help.

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Mental health

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