Nairobi mental wellness walk to spotlight stigma and barriers to proper care
Amani Counseling Centre and Training Institute (ACCTI) has called for greater access to mental health support and an end to stigma that prevents people from seeking professional help
The institution says fear of judgement, discrimination and the cost of treatment continue to discourage individuals and families from speaking openly about mental health challenges
The call was made during the launch of the Amani Walk for Mental Wellness 2026 at the institution’s headquarters along Raila Odinga Way in Nairobi
The walk is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary, bringing together individuals, families and institutions to promote mental wellness and encourage early intervention
Speaking during the launch, Amani Executive Director Florence Busiega said people experiencing psychological distress may continue with their daily routines without revealing the difficulties they are facing
“The absence of a cry for help does not mean the absence of suffering,” Busiega said, urging Kenyans to pay closer attention to the emotional wellbeing of those around them
She noted that students dealing with academic pressure, employees facing personal challenges and families supporting loved ones need environments where they can discuss mental health concerns without fear of discrimination
Busiega called for greater compassion, early intervention and affordable professional support, particularly for people who struggle to seek assistance because of stigma or financial constraints.The campaign comes amid concerns over the global burden of mental health conditions and gaps in access to treatment
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly one in seven people worldwide, equivalent to approximately 1.2 billion people, were living with a mental disorder in 2023
The WHO has also estimated that 727,000 people died by suicide in 2021, with suicide ranking as the third leading cause of death among people aged 15 to 29 that year
The figures highlight the need for timely support, effective treatment and interventions that encourage people to seek help before their conditions worsen
Operating under the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” the Amani campaign seeks to amplify the experiences of people affected by mental health challenges and encourage communities to respond with empathy rather than judgement
The institution says awareness campaigns should translate into practical support, including listening to people in distress, challenging discriminatory attitudes and helping those in need access appropriate services
“A person who is struggling should not have to become a statistic before we pay attention,” Busiega said
The November walk is expected to provide a platform for public engagement on mental wellness while encouraging individuals, families and institutions to make mental health support part of everyday conversations
Amani is urging Kenyans to recognise signs of emotional distress, approach affected individuals with compassion and help create safe spaces where people can speak openly and seek professional assistance
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