In 2011, I had the opportunity to study community services work at Bankstown Tafe, an experience that opened my eyes to the profound impact mental health has on communities. As a trained counselor and mindfulness coach, I have witnessed first-hand the challenges people face when trying to access mental health support. This is a personal mission for me, driven by my passion for advocating mental health awareness and the fight against family domestic violence. I am a Community Advocate and Programs and Activity coordinator and Elewesha Jamii Organisation in Kenya.

In Kenya, mental health must be recognized as a fundamental right, not a privilege. However, millions of Kenyans lack access to adequate mental health services, including affordable counseling and support. Rising cases of depression, anxiety, addiction, and suicide indicate a nationwide mental health crisis that demands immediate attention.

The current mental health infrastructure in Kenya is stretched thin, leaving many vulnerable populations without the necessary support. According to WHO statistics, there is less than one mental health professional per 100,000 people, which is alarmingly low for a country with over 50 million citizens. This disparity highlights the urgent need for local interventions to address the mental health crisis effectively.

We urge the Government of Kenya, the Ministry of Health, and all County Governments to take action by establishing mental health counseling centers in every county. Such centers should offer a range of services, including crisis intervention, trauma recovery programs, support groups, and addiction counseling. By creating these centers, we can provide communities with safe spaces where individuals can seek help without stigma or fear.

Implementing these measures requires collaboration between governmental bodies, healthcare providers, and community organizations. They must ensure these centers are well-staffed with trained professionals and equipped with the resources necessary to deliver comprehensive mental health care.

Together, we can build a supportive framework for mental health care in Kenya, allowing every citizen the opportunity to seek the help they need when they need it. Sign this petition to demand that mental health counseling centers become a reality in every county of Kenya.