Nearly one billion people worldwide suffer from some form of mental disorder the latest UN data shows. In Kenya, mental health is also a growing challenge. An estimated 25 per cent of the population experience a mental health disorder.
Unfortunately, many people with mental health conditions do not have access to effective care due to various reasons such as lack of services and support, lack of capacity, lack of access or unaffordable services, and widespread stigma that stops people from seeking help.
Different belief systems, language, and idiomatic expressions around mental health across cultures also influence whether people seek help or recognise problems or experiences concerning mental health.
Taboo topic
It is because of the above that Josephine Macharia decided to come up with an initiative known as If You Don’t Mind Me Saying (IYDMMS) Forum whose aim is to eradicate the stigma surrounding mental health, promote open dialogue, and provide much-needed support to individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
“The forum aims to promote mental health conversations, provide resources, and develop solutions to address the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions,” says Macharia.
She shares how she came up with this initiative because for a long time, many people have been finding it hard to talk about and disclose their mental health status to others, including work colleagues and even their families, hence mental health remains a taboo subject.
“I believe that mental well-being is a fundamental aspect of overall health and should be treated with the same importance as physical well-being,” Macharia says
Creating awareness
With this initiative, she hopes to create a world where mental health is no longer a taboo subject, but rather a topic of open conversation, support, and understanding. The goal is to empower individuals to prioritise their mental well-being, access the necessary resources and treatment, and break free from the chains of stigma and discrimination.
She says the one of the reasons stigma surrounding mental health still continues even in the modern era is because the conversation has not been normalised. Therefore, normalising this conversation is one of the ways that can help break the stigma. Another reason is misinformation— for instance some people believe that mental health conditions do not have a cure, yet in reality, there is. Thus, Macharia wants to bridge that gap and raise awareness so that every person gets to learn about mental health well-being and solutions that are there.
“Through this initiative, I want to challenge the barriers that impede progress in the realm of mental health. I also want to dismantle the walls of stigma brick by brick, creating a society that values and wholeheartedly supports mental health,” she says.
She has been organising awareness campaigns, hosting educational webinars, and providing a platform for individuals to share their personal experiences. By encouraging open dialogue and fostering a sense of community, the initiative has been empowering individuals to seek help, find solace in their struggles, and connect with others on similar journeys.
“Just recently, to celebrate the Mental Health Awareness Month, we organised a two-day mental health summit that brought together mental health champions, advocates, practitioners, and various key stakeholders. During the meeting, we discussed the future of mental health, with a specific focus on reducing stigma, promoting better understanding, and eliminating barriers to care and support. What we want to achieve from this initiative is a society where everyone feels safe, heard, and supported,” Macharia explains.
Working together
Renowned experts and passionate advocates took the stage to share their insights, experiences, and strategies for building resilience and nurturing emotional well-being.
“By joining forces, we want to foster an inclusive environment where access to mental health care is not a privilege, but a fundamental right for all. We want to forge a future where mental well-being thrives, where resources are accessible to all, and where no one feels alone in their struggle,” she says.
In addition to its advocacy efforts, the initiative also collaborates with mental health professionals, organisations, and policymakers to ensure that mental health receives the attention it deserves on a societal level. By promoting evidence-based practices and advocating for policy changes, the initiative strives to create a supportive environment that recognises the importance of mental health in all aspects of life. She reveals that the impact of the initiative has been far-reaching, with countless individuals finding solace, support, and guidance through its initiatives.
“What I know is that together we can challenge misconceptions, dispel myths, and create a ripple effect of change within our communities. Let us stand united, breaking free from the chains of silence, and supporting one another in our shared journey toward mental health,” she urges.
Macharia says that it is essential to bring conversations about mental health to the forefront and prioritise self-care because the world is experiencing an escalating mental health crisis that is impacting individuals, families, workplaces, and the economy.
“Through collaboration, education, and compassion, the initiative is committed to breaking the barriers surrounding mental health, transforming lives, and building a brighter, healthier future for all. I believe that together, we can overcome the challenges and create a society that prioritises mental well-being,” she says in ending.
