KEMRI Champions Mental Health Awareness in May: “Team Advocates for Strengthening of Minds Through the Community.”

As the world marks Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the spotlight turns on a powerful but often overlooked force in mental wellness: the community.

This year’s global theme, “Community”, underscores how collective support can be a lifeline in preventing and managing mental health challenges.

In Kenya, mental health concerns are becoming increasingly urgent. According to the Ministry of Health, one in four Kenyans will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.

These conditions can stem from a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors — ranging from genetic predispositions to life events such as bereavement, divorce, or chronic illness. However, a supportive community can act as a buffer against these challenges, while isolation or harmful environments can deepen them.

Community can either be a protective or risk factor. Supportive networks strengthen resilience, while lack of connection can increase vulnerability. From family units and faith-based groups to sports teams and workplaces, community plays a pivotal role in shaping mental wellness. Whether it’s through a conversation over dinner or a walk with a friend, safe, inclusive spaces can foster healing and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

That there is a clear role in faith, family and fitness in building blocks in Mental Health Wellness, cannot be over emphasized. Places of worship are often the first refuge for those facing emotional distress. By encouraging honest discussions and offering emotional and spiritual support, these institutions can play a key role in early intervention and prevention. In the same vein, community spaces like sports and fitness clubs offer not only physical health benefits but also vital social connections that promote mental wellbeing.

At home, simple acts like listening without judgment, sharing meals, and spending quality time together can make a significant difference.

Modelling healthy coping strategies such as setting boundaries and seeking help also helps foster emotional resilience within families.

As a research Institution, KEMRI’s role is not just talking the talk; but walking it. The Institute’s Mental Health Department has been actively involved in both research and community outreach. In April 2025, the department successfully piloted a suicide prevention training programme for faith leaders at KEMRI Headquarters. The initiative, which engaged priests, imams, and other religious figures, was met with enthusiastic feedback.

“The training gave me the confidence to address suicidal thoughts among my congregants,” one participant shared after the engaging session.

The department is also conducting research on adolescent depression and mental health among athletes, contributing vital data to inform national policy and community programs. Moreover, KEMRI is working closely with Community Health Promoters to identify local mental health needs and tailor interventions accordingly.

Our call to action is for everyone, every member of staff to be the difference we seek. Mental health affects people of all backgrounds, and no one should have to suffer in silence.

The message from KEMRI is clear: we all have a role to play. Whether you’re a teacher, coach, parent, religious leader, or friend — you can be a catalyst for change. “Promoting mental wellness starts with creating safe, open spaces for dialogue,” we dare emphasizes.

“Encouraging honest conversations without judgment can go a long way in reducing stigma and fostering support.”

If you’re struggling with your mental health, know this: you are not alone. Reach out — to a loved one, a counselor, or a mental health professional. Support is within reach. This May, let’s unite for mental health. One conversation, one gesture, one community at a time.

Mental Support Services:

• Emergency Services: Dial 999
• The Kenya Red Cross Society: 1199 (Toll free, 24/hr)
• Befrienders Kenya: +254 722 178 177