Dr. Deborah Barasa Urges Focus on Workplace Mental Health on World Mental Health Day

In response to these pressing challenges, Dr. Barasa announced the launch of Kenya’s inaugural National Guidelines on Workplace Mental Wellness.

Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr Deborah Mlongo Barasa, emphasized the critical need to prioritize mental health in workplaces during this year’s World Mental Health Day event, held at Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital. With the theme “Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” Dr Barasa highlighted the staggering statistic that approximately 3.7 million workers in Kenya may be grappling with mental health disorders, a situation that contributed to a 0.6% loss of the nation’s GDP in 2020 due to reduced productivity.

Introduction of National Guidelines on Workplace Mental Wellness

In response to these pressing challenges, Dr. Barasa announced the launch of Kenya’s inaugural National Guidelines on Workplace Mental Wellness. These guidelines aim to promote mental well-being and establish robust support systems for employees facing mental health issues. “These guidelines are a vital step toward creating a healthier workforce and a more productive economy,” she stated.

Call for Collaborative Efforts and Investments

Dr. Barasa called for a united effort to address mental health challenges, urging for increased investments in mental health clinics across Level 4 hospitals. She stressed the importance of implementing these guidelines by employers and incorporating mental wellness programs into school curricula. “By fostering a culture of mental well-being from a young age, we can build a more resilient workforce for the future,” she asserted.

Launch of Strategic Plan for Mathari HospitalIn addition to the guidelines, Dr. Barasa launched the Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital Strategic Plan 2024-2029. This plan is designed to enhance the quality of mental healthcare services and promote institutional growth within the facility. The strategic plan aims to better equip the hospital to address the increasing mental health needs of the population.

Promoting a Culture of Mental Well-being

Dr. Barasa highlighted the importance of cultivating a workplace culture that values and supports mental well-being, stating, “By prioritizing mental health, we can enhance productivity and overall societal well-being.” She reiterated that mental wellness is not just an individual concern but a collective responsibility that impacts the entire society.

Acknowledgments and Partnerships

The Cabinet Secretary acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Ministry of Labour PS representative, Dr. Barasa Wafula, and development partners in health, including Johnson & Johnson, for their unwavering support in making this year’s mental health event a success. Their collaboration is seen as essential in driving forward the initiatives aimed at improving mental health care across the country.

ConclusionAs Kenya moves forward with these new guidelines and initiatives, the emphasis on mental health in the workplace is expected to play a significant role in improving employee well-being and enhancing national productivity. By addressing mental health challenges proactively, the Ministry of Health aims to foster a healthier, more productive workforce that contributes positively to the nation's economy.