Kenya faces economic challenges: high costs, income gaps. Beyond fiscal policies, mental health is a critical, often-ignored factor impacting our economic stability and sustainable development.
Untreated mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are widespread, costing us dearly. They slash productivity through presenteeism and absenteeism, raise healthcare expenses and exacerbate poverty by making stable employment difficult. A recent report even highlighted how Kenya’s tough economy is increasing depression among youth, potentially leading to family instability.
Mental health is also central to our Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Good Health (SDG 3), Poverty Eradication (SDG 1), Decent Work (SDG 8), Quality Education (SDG 4) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10). A healthy mind means a productive society.
Despite this, mental health receives less than 1% of Kenya’s health budget, leaving a massive treatment gap. Our current economic climate only worsens these challenges.
To achieve true economic resilience, we must prioritize mental health. This means increased investment, integrating services into primary care and workplaces, destigmatizing mental illness, promoting workplace wellness, strengthening policies and using data for informed decisions.
Investing in mental health isn’t just social good; it’s a strategic economic imperative. A mentally healthy population is productive, resilient and innovative essential for Kenya’s sustainable growth. Without a sound mind, a sound economy remains an elusive dream.
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