Fear of judgment and misinformation are keeping many Kenyans from speaking about mental health challenges or seeking the support they need, Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi has said, calling on political leaders to take the lead in fighting stigma and creating space for open conversations.
Elachi said many people continue to suffer in silence because they fear being judged, while false beliefs about mental health conditions make it harder for those affected to seek help.
“Very many people suffer in silence because of fear of being judged and also the misinformation around mental health conditions. This is quite unfortunate,” she said.
The Vice Chairperson of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) spoke on Thursday during a mental health and safety training session for women legislators, where members discussed the pressures that come with political leadership and the need to give greater attention to their mental well-being.
Elachi urged Kenyans to challenge common misconceptions about mental health and offer support to people going through emotional and psychological difficulties.
“We should all work towards fighting the common perception that mental illness is madness through awareness, education and supporting those facing mental health challenges,” said Elachi.
She said political leaders have a special role to play in changing attitudes towards mental health by helping create an environment where people can speak about their struggles without fear of discrimination or judgment.
The training brought together women legislators from both the National Assembly and the Senate, with participants opening up about the demands they face in public office.
They cited intense public scrutiny, criticism on social media and pressure from demanding constituents among the challenges that can affect their well-being. Women leaders also spoke about the expectation to remain strong even when dealing with personal difficulties.
Participants said their busy schedules often leave little time for rest and taking care of their personal well-being, adding to the pressure that comes with political leadership.
The session was organised through a partnership between KEWOPA, NIVISHE Foundation and Solidarity to equip legislators with knowledge and practical approaches to mental health and safety.
Facilitators told the legislators that mental health should be treated with the same importance as physical health. They also stressed that seeking professional or social support should not be viewed as a sign of weakness.
The discussions aimed to break down long-held misconceptions about mental health while encouraging more open conversations about emotional and psychological well-being.
Participants were encouraged to see seeking help as a normal and responsible step rather than an action that should attract shame or discrimination.
The focus on women in political leadership also brought attention to the pressure placed on female leaders to appear resilient regardless of the personal or professional challenges they face.
Elachi's call comes as participants push for greater openness around mental health and a shift away from social attitudes that leave people struggling in silence.