By Dorothy Musyoka
On September 10, 2024, the Ministry of Health took a groundbreaking step in addressing Kenya’s mental health challenges by unveiling the country’s first Clinical Guidelines for Managing Common Mental Disorders, alongside an adapted World Health Organization Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP).
The launch, which coincided with World Suicide Prevention Day, marked a significant milestone in the nation’s ongoing efforts to provide accessible and comprehensive mental health care.
Representing Director General Dr. Patrick Amoth, Dr. Bashir Isaak highlighted the urgent need to enhance mental health services in Kenya due to the alarmingly high rates of depression and anxiety.
“The new guidelines aim to address a 75% treatment gap by enhancing diagnosis and treatment at primary care levels. This launch, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day, underscores efforts to reduce suicide rates and improve mental health care with support from PEPFAR, CDC, and Johnson & Johnson,” stated Dr. Isaak
The launch was also a call to action for changing societal attitudes towards mental health. Senator Hamida Kibwana, a vocal advocate for mental health, passionately emphasized the need for a dedicated mental health desk, especially for politicians who often struggle with mental health issues in silence.
“We need a dedicated mental health desk. Many politicians struggle with mental health issues and require support. Ignoring mental health in any segment of our society is not an option,” Senator Kibwana said.
“Suicide is not a crime; it is the result of untreated mental health issues, not a matter for law enforcement. We must create an environment where everyone feels safe and supported,” added Senator Kibwana.
Recognizing that a lack of trained personnel remains a significant barrier to effective mental health care, Dr. Julius Ogato, Chief Executive Office of Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital, addressed the gap in human resources.
He underscored that training and capacity building for the existing healthcare workforce are critical to facilitating early diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions.
The gap in human resources for mental health will be addressed through training and capacity building of the existing workforce. This will facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, ensuring continuity of care. ~ Dr. Julius Ogato stated.
The Ministry of Health’s initiative is a collaborative effort that calls upon all stakeholders government agencies, healthcare providers, non-governmental organizations, and the public to join hands in addressing the mental health crisis.