Kenyans urged to end stigma against people living with mental health conditions

Kenyans are being encouraged to cease stigmatizing and discriminating against those living with mental health issues. Beatrice Elachi, the MP for Dagoretti North, emphasized that stigma and discrimination continue to be significant obstacles to obtaining mental health care in the nation. "Many individuals suffer in silence due to the fear of judgment and misconceptions surrounding mental health conditions," she stated.

Elachi made this remark during a mental health and safety training for members of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) on Thursday. She stressed that everyone, including political leaders, has a responsibility to combat stigma related to mental health. "We should all strive to challenge the notion that mental illness equates to madness through awareness, education, and supporting those facing mental health challenges," Elachi asserted.

Elachi, who serves as the Vice Chairperson of KEWOPA, a non-partisan group of women legislators from the National Assembly and the Senate, collaborated with NIVISHE Foundation and Solidarity to conduct the training for the legislators. During the session, the lawmakers shared their personal accounts of the pressures they face as women in politics, such as intense public scrutiny, harsh social media criticism, demanding constituents, and the expectation to maintain a strong demeanor. They also pointed out the challenge of finding time for rest and self-care.

The facilitators underscored that mental health should be treated with the same importance as physical health, and seeking help should not be seen as a sign of weakness. The discussions aimed to dispel the stigma surrounding mental health, promoting more open conversations to normalize seeking support as a responsible and healthy step. Participants noted that this matter is especially crucial for women in political leadership, who are frequently expected to remain strong despite any personal challenges they may encounter.