Mental Health Awareness Week Begins Nationwide

Mental health advocates have kicked off a nationwide Mental Health Awareness Week in Kenya, marking a critical push to destigmatize mental illness and promote early access to care. The initiative aligns with the country’s Mental Health Action Plan 2021–2025, which recommends an annual awareness week during the second week of October.
This year’s campaign has been amplified through a national Walk for Wellness, led in part by Prof. Catherine Gachutha of the Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association (KCPA). The walk spans ten counties, bringing together community members, mental health professionals, and people with lived experience to highlight the importance of mental health support and solidarity.
The Ministry of Health has also called on county governments, faith groups, and employers to participate by organizing local awareness activities such as mental health talks, screening sessions, and peer-support group formation. The goal is to foster open dialogue and encourage more Kenyans to speak up about mental health without fear of shame.
At the same time, the government is reinforcing its commitment to mental well‑being by rolling out national guidelines for workplace mental wellness. Health officials believe this combination of awareness, policy, and community action could drive long-term change and improve access to mental health services across the country.