Ministry of Health Pushes for Mental Health Advocacy and Stigma Reduction
She called on families, communities, and stakeholders to foster supportive environments and prioritize mental health in their discussions.
Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, joined Enterprising World Kenya and the Consolata Community in a mental health advocacy event, reinforcing the government’s dedication to addressing mental health challenges.Photo/Ministry of Health.
Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, joined Enterprising World Kenya and the Consolata Community in a mental health advocacy event, reinforcing the government’s dedication to addressing mental health challenges.
The event, held in Kirinyaga County, highlighted the Ministry of Health’s ongoing efforts to integrate mental health services into Kenya’s primary healthcare framework. Muthoni outlined how the government is empowering Community Health Promoters to provide mental health support at the grassroots level.
Additionally, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is being leveraged to ensure affordable access to mental health services, making care accessible to vulnerable populations.
During her address, Muthoni dispelled misconceptions surrounding mental health.
“Mental illness is not a weakness. Seeking help is an act of courage, and we must create environments where individuals feel supported to take that step,” she said.
The Principal Secretary emphasized the need for collective action to combat stigma, which often prevents individuals from seeking timely treatment.
She called on families, communities, and stakeholders to foster supportive environments and prioritize mental health in their discussions.
The advocacy event also aimed to shed light on the critical importance of mental health for Kenya’s broader healthcare agenda.
Experts at the event stressed that integrating mental health services into existing healthcare systems is essential for reducing societal costs and enhancing productivity.
The government’s commitment to advancing mental health is aligned with its goal of universal health coverage.
By equipping community health workers and prioritizing affordable access, the Ministry aims to ensure that mental health care becomes an integral part of Kenya’s public health strategy.
The event concluded with a call to action from the Principal Secretary, who encouraged all sectors to invest in awareness campaigns, supportive programs, and partnerships to create a healthier and more resilient society.
Mental health remains a critical issue globally, and Kenya’s proactive approach sets an example of how government policies, community engagement, and partnerships can work together to address these challenges.
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