By Kevin Odera
Aga Khan University Institute for Human Development held a mental health open day at Dagoretti South Empowerment Centre in Kawangware to raise awareness on mental health and why it matters to the community.
The event which entailed talks, testimonials and drama performances saw sub county health department representatives and stakeholders talk about the various steps that have been implemented to fight the mental health crisis in the region.
“We are working hard to take care of our mental health as a county. In all our level 3 and level 4 institutions, you can get treatment for free if faced with a mental health illness,” said Dr. Leah Njeri Njenga, the area Sub County Pharmacist.
The sub county mental health focal person Paul Mbugua stated that there few mental health experts moving around to bring services closer to the community despite the fact that there is a critical shortage of mental health professionals.
Former senator Sylvia Kasanga who was the keynote speaker applauded Nairobi County for its dedication in tackling mental health issues.
A veteran journalist by the name Tom who is a mental health champion was invited at the event and he gave a personal account of his struggle with severe depression and his recovery journey.
The institute is currently implementing research projects with the intentions of understanding and addressing mental health problems in communities within Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
World Mental Health day is celebrated every year on October 10th to raise awareness on mental health.
This year’s theme was ‘Make mental health a global priority for all’.
