Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called on journalists to speak out and be on the front line on creating awareness on mental health conditions that pose a big threat to Kenyans.
In a statement during the inaugural mental health tournament for journalists hosted by Meru Press Club, Prof Kindiki noted that mental illnesses were affecting many Kenyans hence the need to end stigma and enhance health care.
The event, over the weekend, brought together journalists from Meru, Tharaka Nithi and Isiolo.
Through his speech that was read by Meru Press Club (MPC) vice chairperson Dorcas Mbatia, Prof Kindiki said his office will continue to support such initiatives to help mitigate effects of mental health in the country.
“I congratulate and applaud you all for convening such an event today which aligns with our priorities as a government to address the issues of mental health,” said the DP.
DP Kindiki said there was a need for the ministry of health and other government and non-governmental organizations to step in and help Kenyans become more productive and efficient in service delivery to help transform our economy.
“Let us share our challenges and difficulties. Don’t suffer in silence because a mentally affected person is unproductive and unhappy leading to poor services and man power.”
“I promise to remain your friend and partner in the media industry. You can count on my support. Equally, support each other, stand with each other and check on each other constantly,” said the deputy president.
He said the government appreciates the role of Media as the watchdog of society and the social-economical transformative changes it brings to the country.
“We appreciate the role you all play in informing our people. Be more proactive in educating our people towards the transformative policies and programs initiated by the government on health, education, economy, agriculture and labour mobility,” he added.
Meru University of Science and Technology acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof Stephen Mutua noted that journalists were not immune to mental illnesses.
“We are living in an era of high data and a lot of misinformation. Journalists are under pressure to give verifiable information. This exposes them to mental health issues. This is why we have many cases of mood and anxiety disorders. This mental health forum is very timely,” Prof Mutua said.
He lauded the Meru Press Club for involving media students in the mental health event terming it a major learning experience.
“There is a need for strong support programmes for journalists nationally so that we do not lose to mental illness. We also need forums for men to speak up on the stresses that weigh them down,” he said.
MPC chairman David Muchui noted that Journalists encounter traumatizing events such as violence and crime in their line of duty posing a threat to their mental health.
He expressed concern over a culture of silence among media personnel which has left many suffering unattended.
“Journalists often have to listen to harrowing stories that weigh heavily on them emotionally. They also work under tight deadlines and some go without rest for long. We urge journalists to speak out and seek help before stress turns into depression,” he said.
Mr Muchui called on Media houses to improve the welfare of journalists by providing counselling services to affected staff members.
Ms Mbatia encouraged journalists to mind their welfare, warning that in most cases, the demands of duty overshadow journalists’ mental health needs.
“The pressure to break news first combined with long, unpredictable working hours, and devastating reporting assignments creates an environment that takes a toll on mental health. This has led to a rise in the cases of drug abuse, alcoholism, depression and suicide cases among journalists,’ the vice chairperson said.
Mr James Mugambi, a clinical psychologist noted that more than 64 percent of journalists in Kenya have suffered from mental health issues.
He noted that there are more than 300 mental disorders that affect human beings and if not addressed at early stages they cause dangerous effects.
While officially launching mental health tournament, Media Council of Kenya regional coordinator Jackson Karaja said the council is committed to address the mental health issues among journalist across the country.
