More action is needed to address growing mental health crisis
Opinion
By
Agnes Ngatia
| Jul 29, 2025
Globally, one in eight people live with a mental health disorder, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). In Kenya, experts estimate that one in four people may be grappling with mental health challenges, ranging from mild emotional distress to more severe conditions such as anxiety and depression. WHO also ranks Kenya among the top five African countries with the highest prevalence of depression.
These concerning statistics are largely driven by multiple systemic and societal factors, including limited public awareness, a shortage of mental health professionals, and persistent myths and misinformation. As a result, many individuals and their loved ones often struggle to identify symptoms early, delaying the seeking of appropriate professional care.
Our under-resourced healthcare system further exacerbates the crisis. For instance, Kenya’s national mental health budget remains far below international recommendations, contributing to a critical shortage of skilled professionals. The country has only 0.19 psychiatrists and 0.13 psychologists per 100,000 people, according to recent WHO and the Global Burden of Disease Study estimates - an alarming figure for a population exceeding 50 million. The Ministry of Health guidelines assert that the country needs 1,400 more psychiatrists, an additional 7,000 psychiatric nurses, and 3,000 more psychologists.
The recently launched National Clinical Guidelines for the Management of Common Mental Disorders underscore the urgent need for action. Data from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reveals that up to 25 per cent of outpatients and 40 per cent of inpatients in Kenyan healthcare facilities experience a mental health condition, yet only 4.1 per cent receive proper diagnosis and treatment. This glaring gap reflects deep-rooted challenges and inefficiencies within our healthcare infrastructure.
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Mental health issues affect our behaviour and how we interact with different aspects; substance abuse has also increased the burden. According to NACADA 2022 Drug Report, one in six Kenyans aged 15-65 years have a drug or substance of abuse problem.
Gambling as well has become a common problem and is a challenge to mental health. Recent date shows that over 70 per cent of Kenyans are gambling and this is already affecting mental health. The loss of huge amounts of money to gambling leaves one in a depressive state.
Many patients arrive in hospitals in crisis, having endured months or even years of silent suffering, having exhausted every other alternative. In some cases, they have faced ridicule, blame, or outright dismissal from their communities and workplaces.
We can no longer bury our heads in the sand and pretend all is well. A robust response is long overdue. Without concerted efforts to safeguard the mental well-being of every individual, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Kenya urgently needs a national mental health strategy that is bold, collaborative, and sustained. This means translating well-meaning dialogue into concrete action: Increased investment in research, improved public education, and coordinated programmes that bridge gaps in care.
A key part of this strategy must be public education. We must dispel the myths that continue to hinder access to care. Mental illness is not a character flaw, a spiritual curse, or a sign of weakness. It is a medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.
Ms Ngatia is Charge Nurse, The Nairobi Hospital- Psychosocial Department