Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa says mental health challenges could lead to losses estimated to be up to Ksh62.2 billion annually.
In a statement on Thursday, October 10, 2024, after attending World Mental Health Day at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital, Barasa highlighted the significant impact of poor mental health on society.
Among the impacts of poor mental health highlighted by the CS include social exclusion, discrimination, and economic loss.
“Mental health is the cornerstone of our overall well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, influencing our relationships, decision-making, and resilience. As the adage goes, “There is no health without mental health.” Led stakeholders to mark World Mental Health Day at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital under the theme ‘Mental Health at Work’,” she stated.
“Highlighted the significant impact of poor mental health on society, including social exclusion, discrimination, and economic loss with studies showing that mental health challenges impose a huge burden on our economy, with losses estimated to be up to Ksh62.2 billion annually.”
Barasa has also called on employers to create environments that prioritize the well-being of employees.
“Emphasized the crucial role of workplaces in addressing mental health issues and called on employers to create environments that prioritize the well-being of employees,” she added.
World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10 every year to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
“The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide,” the World Health Organisation (WHO) says.
WHO says stigma, discrimination, and exposure to risks like harassment and other poor working conditions, can pose significant risks, affecting mental health, overall quality of life and consequently participation or productivity at work.
“With 60% of the global population in work, urgent action is needed to ensure work prevents risks to mental health and protects and supports mental health at work,” WHO says.