By Lambert Oigara, Consultant Clinical Psychologist Overview: This article discusses the impact of colonial legacies on mental health practices in Africa, particularly in Kenya. It outlines how colonialism marginalized traditional African healing practices and promoted Western mental health methods, often to the detriment of culturally relevant approaches. Additionally, it highlights modern challenges in mental health...
By Lambert Oigara, Consultant Clinical Psychologist “I don’t see the difference between breaking your leg and having a mental health breakdown. It’s health, there is no distinction.” These sentiments by US President Joe Biden highlight the undeniable link between mental and physical health. However, many around the world do not receive adequate mental health care....
In 1969, former president of the American Psychological Association (APA), George A. Miller, envisioned making psychology accessible to the general public, urging his peers to ‘give away Psychology.’ During an era dominated by Freudian psychoanalysis, Piaget’s cognitive theory, and Watson’s behavioural theories, psychology gained traction in the Western world following the aftermath of World War...
Self-Compassion: Treating Yourself with Kindness – CBT Kenya What is Self-Compassion? At its core, self-compassion is about treating oneself with the same level of kindness and understanding that we would offer to a good friend. It’s recognizing that perfection is unattainable and that making mistakes is part of being human. Dr. Kristin Neff, a leading...
Embracing January as Mental Wellness Month – CBT Kenya As we usher in the new year, January takes on a special significance beyond resolutions and fresh starts—it marks Mental Wellness Month. In a world that constantly demands our attention and resilience, prioritizing mental well-being is crucial. This month serves as a poignant reminder to reflect...
Perfectionism and Burnout: The Struggle for Balance – CBT Kenya In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, the pursuit of excellence has become a hallmark of success. However, this relentless pursuit of perfection often comes at a significant cost – burnout. Perfectionism, characterized by the unrelenting pursuit of high standards and fear of failure, can drive...
Cost of living and mental health – CBT Kenya Our basic human needs of staying warm, safe and having enough to eat are being challenged. The cost of living is a pressing issue that affects individuals and families worldwide. It encompasses the expenses necessary to maintain a basic standard of living, including housing, food, transportation,...
History of National Suicide Prevention Month – CBT Kenya “I think suicide is sort of like cancer was 50 years ago. People don’t want to talk about it, they don’t want to know about it. People are frightened of it, and they don’t understand, when actually these issues are treatable.” – Judy Collins. All of...
National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month – CBT Kenya July marks the observance of National Minority Mental Health Month, a nationwide initiative established by Mental Health America. This important awareness campaign aims to shed light on the diverse range of mental health experiences within Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) communities. The month also...
SCHOOLS: Biggest Providers of Mental Health Services in Kenya Article by Letoo James On 1st June 2019, Kenya declared the state of her mental health a national disaster. Using the Madaraka Day platform, President Kenyatta singled out depression as the most common mental disorder devastating young people’s lives. He then directed employers and schools at...
