Experts have called on the government to integrate mental health into the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to combat the rising cases among young people.
Led by counsellors and university dons, they said early education on mental health is crucial in addressing the rising cases of anxiety, depression, suicide, substance use and abuse, and other psychological disorders among students.
Dr. Susan Gitau, a Senior Psychologist, also a Nazarene University lecturer, said the issue demands a serious national debate; otherwise, the country would lose an entire generation.
The stakeholders emphasised the need for adequate funding for mental health initiatives in schools as well as community programmes.
“Mental health training should be integrated into the school syllabus, starting from primary school, to equip students with coping mechanisms and resilience. Also, all learning institutions, from primary schools to universities, should have well-trained counsellors to provide both teaching and counselling services,” said Dr. Gitau.
They were speaking during a stakeholders meeting at Zetech University’s Ruiru campus, where several students underwent counselling.
Veronica Kamau, the Head of the Department of Tourism and International Relations at Zetech University, said the institution has established a counselling unit and a peer counselling club to address the rising cases.
“Most students are financially strained and undergo various forms of struggles which not addressed, can lead to depression that can be detrimental,” she said.
She called for enhanced partnerships between the government, educational institutions, and the local administration to address the crisis.
Zeetch University students led by Nelius Wanjiku highlighted the struggles they face, including drug abuse, economic hardships, and lack of communication with parents and lecturers.
“Many students are forced to sell their laptops, gas cookers, and even beddings to pay off debts or buy food. The stress levels escalate when students are barred from taking exams due to fee arrears, leaving them uncertain about their future. Poor communication and the inability to share their struggles make students feel isolated, pushing some to extreme measures,” Wanjiku said.
By Muoki Charles