By Lambert Oigara, Clinical Psychologist, CBT Kenya Summary: This article delves into the significant challenges facing mental health practitioners in Kenya, highlighting the increasing pressure on professionals, the historical stigma surrounding the profession, and the worrying trend of mental health ‘Experts’ on social media. The Growing Strain on Mental Health Practitioners Mental health practitioners in...
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 The unintended consequence of deinstitutionalizing mental health facilities, commonly known as asylums, was a rise in homelessness. The misconception that chronic mental illnesses like Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia were curable led to a complex interplay between individuals with mental illness who self-medicated with alcohol and drugs, perpetuating a cycle...
By Lambert Oigara, Consultant Clinical Psychologist Fluctuation in emotions between highs, lows, neutrality, and unpredictability are normal responses to life’s daily encounters. Emotions are influenced by daily stressors, mood states, financial obligations, relationships, and external circumstances. While some individuals naturally express emotions openly, others may suppress or struggle to articulate them due to various experiences...
Modern epidemic; the depths of sleep deprivation – By Lambert Oigara, Consultant Clinical Psychologist The issue of sleep deprivation remains widespread, often normalized despite its profound impact on our well-being. Throughout history, the importance of sleep has been evident, with figures like Charles Dickens, Thomas Edison, and Abraham Lincoln sharing their struggles and innovative coping...
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...
Mindful eating during festivities – CBT Kenya As the holiday season approaches, our senses are tantalized by the promise of festive feasts and treasured treats. It’s a time of joy, celebration, and, often, an abundance of food that can sometimes lead to overindulgence. But what if we could savor the richness of these culinary delights...
Art therapy: What role does it play? – CBT Kenya Understanding Art Therapy Definition and Origins: Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that utilizes the creative process of making art to improve and enhance mental health and well-being. It is a dynamic discipline that finds its roots in the early 20th century, gaining momentum...
Addressing mental health concerns in men Mental health has long been a subject that’s been stigmatized and misunderstood. Unfortunately, societal expectations and traditional gender roles have contributed to a culture where men, in particular, feel pressured to remain stoic, strong, and silent when it comes to their emotional well-being. However, it’s crucial that we challenge...
October is ADHD Awareness Month – CBT Kenya October marks a special time of the year when the world comes together to observe ADHD Awareness Month. It’s a month dedicated to raising awareness about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dispelling myths, and fostering a deeper understanding of this neurodevelopmental condition. ADHD affects millions of people of all...
