September is recognized as suicide prevention month, and Kenya is no exception. According to the World Health Organisation, one person dies by suicide every 40 seconds globally. In Kenya, the Health ministry reports that about four people die by suicide every day. The Mt Kenya region alone recorded 680 suicide deaths between June last year and April this year, underscoring the severity of the issue.
Suicide is often linked to poor mental health, and Kenya's high suicide rates reflect the state of its citizens' mental well-being. Historically, people who attempted suicide in Kenya were sent to jail, but in January 2025, the High Court declared unconstitutional sections of the law that created the crime of 'attempted suicide'. This ruling marked a significant step in addressing mental health stigma, acknowledging that individuals who attempt suicide need help, not punishment.
Despite this progress, the government has been slow to implement systems that alleviate suicide. As of July 2026, Parliament was still debating whether to amend laws criminalizing suicide, a year after the courts ruled them unconstitutional. In 2020, a presidential task force on mental health submitted a report recommending that mental illness be declared a national emergency of epidemic proportions. The report proposed various actions, including hiring more mental health workers and establishing recreation facilities to help people cope with stress and anxiety.
The task force's proposals aimed to address the root causes of mental health issues and provide support to those affected. However, the report's recommendations appear to have been largely ignored by policymakers at both county and national government levels. Unless a concerted effort is made to address the nation's mental well-being, attempts to improve physical well-being are likely to be undermined. Mental health support is crucial in preventing suicide cases.
As Kenya marks World Suicide Prevention Month, mental health must be a priority in national discussions. Bold decisions are needed to improve citizens' mental health, making Kenya a country where people look forward to living, not dying. This includes addressing key challenges such as the cost of living, joblessness, and social conflict, which contribute to mental health issues.
The government must take a comprehensive approach to address the mental health crisis. This involves not only providing mental health services but also tackling the socio-economic factors that contribute to mental health problems. By doing so, Kenya can reduce its high suicide rates and create a supportive environment for its citizens.
The Standard Group Plc, a leading multi-media house in Kenya, has emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues. As a responsible media organization, The Standard Group Plc has a role in raising awareness about mental health and promoting a culture of understanding and support.
Key points
- Kenya records about four suicide deaths daily
- The High Court declared sections of the law criminalizing 'attempted suicide' unconstitutional in January 2025
- A presidential task force on mental health proposed declaring mental illness a national emergency in 2020
