Stakeholders Call For Concerted Efforts To Fight Mental Illnesses
Glory Outreach Assembly Church Presiding Bishop David Thagana speaking after the Marathon event at Kahwa Wendani in Ruiru constituency
By John Kamau
As mental health issues continue to rise in the country, stakeholders have been challenged to collaborate in promoting mental well-being, improve access to care, reduce stigma and enhance the country’s productivity.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), clerics, and rehabilitators challenged the stakeholders, including government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and individuals to join hands in addressing the challenge that continues to negatively impact individuals and the society.
The stakeholders have raised concerns over alarming cases of suicide, violence, mental disorders and killings in the country. This, they say, is a ticking time bomb that requires serious attention and a multi-sectoral approach to deal with.
Speaking during a marathon organized to raise funds to address mental health issues in the country, the stakeholders led by Federation of Evangelical and Indigenous Christian Churches of Kenya (FEICCK) Secretary General Bishop David Thagana regretted that youths are the most affected by the scourge.
“Mental illnesses are a pandemic that has seen innocent lives lost, dreams shuttered and others left with life-threatening wounds. This is a matter that should be handled with urgency through collaboration between the government and stakeholders in the private sector to save our young people from perishing and for the sake of our future generations,” the Bishop said.
Thagana rooted for prompt mental health interventions, including early detection and support which are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing crises.
“These interventions encompass a range of approaches, from therapy and medication to lifestyle adjustments and community support, all aimed at addressing psychological distress and promoting well-being,” stated Thagana.
He called on all churches to join hands with other stakeholders to protect the country from losing its productivity.
While noting that mental issues are no longer associated with old-age, the Bishop urged the young people to seek help from counselors as well as mentors by confiding in them the issues they are facing noting that this will help them overcome and save them from sinking into depression.
George Kalisa, the NACADA county coordinator in Nairobi blamed alcoholism for increased mental health issues saying that a higher prevalence of anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders mostly affect individuals who abuse alcohol.
Kalisa called for proper parenting to alleviate abuse of alcohol and other outlawed substances saying that the menace can only be combated through collaboration.
“While parents should be at the forefront in the fight against alcoholism that is resulting in mental challenges, other partners such as churches, politicians, professionals among others should be onboarded if we are to win this war,” Kalisa said.
Daniel Gachanja, a therapist, called on the affected not to accept their situations and consider finding help.
He noted that mental health issues are often overlooked due to stigma, limited resources, and a lack of awareness and called on Kenyans to join hands in the fight.
“Mental health in Kenya is a complex issue that requires addressing cultural, economic, and healthcare barriers. Increasing awareness, improving access to care, and reducing stigma are crucial steps to addressing these issues effectively. It is important for the government, NGOs, and other stakeholders to continue working together to create a more supportive environment for mental health care,” stated Gachanja.
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