Mental health specialists have expressed alarm about the escalating psychological issues in work environments, noting that this growing challenge is adversely impacting both productivity and employee welfare throughout multiple industries.
Addressing a mental awareness workshop in Kenol Town, representatives from the Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association revealed that numerous workers face psychological and emotional distress stemming from difficult economic conditions, rigorous performance expectations, uncertain job security, and domestic pressures.
The Association’s Chief Executive Officer, Rachel Kiaritha, observed that while certain companies have implemented wellness initiatives to tackle mental health issues, the current support systems fall short of meeting the expanding demand for psychological and social support among employees.
Kiaritha stated that many employees endure their struggles silently because of social stigma and insufficient professional resources available in their workplaces.
She stressed the importance of organizations and institutions increasing investments in mental health interventions and professional development for those responsible for employee wellbeing. In her view, workplace counselors, trainers, educators, and HR personnel require contemporary counseling and psychosocial competencies to effectively address mental health difficulties.
Additionally, she advocated for organizations to foster work-life equilibrium through adaptable scheduling and wellbeing programs designed to enhance employee happiness and engagement.
Kiaritha noted that positive workplace conditions not only benefit employee health but also boost productivity, collaboration, and organizational effectiveness.
During the same gathering, the Association’s National Secretary, Edwin Kibe, cautioned that the nation is experiencing concerning increases in violent incidents, depressive disorders, and substance misuse, connecting these trends to financial struggles and emotional turmoil impacting numerous households.
Kibe called on employers to implement peer support systems in work settings and dedicate funding for periodic mental health awareness sessions to assist employees in handling stress and adapting to contemporary workplace demands.
He highlighted that many workers lack secure environments where they can freely express their emotional difficulties, complicating timely intervention efforts.
Separately, Jane Muema, an instructor at Kiambu National Polytechnic, voiced apprehension about the rising incidence of drug and substance use among youth, indicating that this pattern is resulting in diminished academic achievement, behavioral issues, and school abandonment.
Muema stated that psychological issues among young people have reached critical proportions and necessitate immediate action from families, educational institutions, faith-based organizations, and governmental bodies.
She observed that digital media influences, social pressures, and difficulties navigating life circumstances are progressively compromising the psychological health of adolescents.
“The prevalence of mental health issues among young people is exceptionally high, requiring immediate attention. Social media platforms are exacerbating the situation, and adolescents require appropriate mentorship to handle life demands responsibly,” she stated.
The counselors encouraged individuals to openly discuss their stress, anxiety, depression, or emotional challenges to access professional assistance before conditions deteriorate.
They also implored parents and caregivers to remain engaged in their children’s development by supervising conduct, fostering transparent dialogue, and providing direction to assist in managing interpersonal and emotional stressors.
The specialists underscored that enhancing mental health consciousness and support frameworks in domestic, educational, and professional settings is essential in confronting the escalating psychological challenges confronting the nation.