Kenya is making progress in recognizing mental health concerns, but gaps remain in providing timely care and helping people recover. The country still faces a major shortage of mental health professionals, with not every county having a psychiatrist. This shortage also affects psychologists and psychiatric clinical officers. According to Dr. David Bukusi, founding director of Peponi Road Wellness Centre, the need for mental health services is huge.
The Ministry of Health has sought to strengthen the policy framework around mental health, with the Mental Health Act 2023 and the integration of mental health into primary healthcare forming part of wider reforms. Dr. Mercy Karanja, Head of the Ministry's Division of Mental Health, said about one in four people seeking medical care in Kenya presents with an underlying mental health condition. Mental health services have also been incorporated into the national health insurance framework.
Collaboration with private providers is crucial in expanding access, strengthening referrals, training health workers, and improving care. Dr. Karanja emphasized that the government cannot address the mental health burden alone. Experts stress that treatment should not end when symptoms improve. Irene Gichohi, Head of Rehabilitation and Occupational Therapy at the Ministry of Health, said rehabilitation should begin early, rather than being treated as a final step before discharge.
Recovery should include the ability to manage daily activities, return to work, communicate, and interact with family members, workmates, and the wider community. Gichohi emphasized that recovery is not just about treating symptoms, but also about enabling individuals to take care of themselves and reintegrate into their communities. A multidisciplinary approach is key to providing effective mental healthcare.
The Kenya Psychiatric Association's President, Dr. Priscilla Makau, emphasized the need for professionals from different disciplines, including psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, nutritionists, physicians, and social workers. Peponi Road Wellness Centre is developing standardized tools for psychiatric and psychological assessment, addiction counseling, and monitoring clinical outcomes.
The centre is adopting a broader approach to wellness, recognizing that mental health cannot be separated from other aspects of a person's life. Dr. Bukusi said the facility is also including financial health in its overall assessment. The centre has introduced Accelerated Resolution Therapy, which has shown encouraging results in some patients with depression, anxiety, panic, and substance use.
Mental health support should shift towards prevention, particularly in workplaces and communities. Rachel Kiaritha, CEO of the Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association, emphasized that seeking psychological support should not be viewed as a sign of weakness. Peponi Road Wellness Centre has launched a 2026-2031 strategic plan focusing on expanding access, improving patient experience, and using digital transformation and innovation to improve care.
Key points
- One in four Kenyans is likely to suffer from a mental health condition.
- Shortage of mental health professionals and uneven access to services and medicines continue to complicate mental healthcare in Kenya.
- A multidisciplinary approach is key to providing effective mental healthcare.
