By Baraka Simba
On October 9, 2024, the Eldoret National Polytechnic joined the rest of the world in marking Mental Health Awareness Week.
The institution held a mental health awareness talk for its staff.
Speaking at the event, the institution’s head of guidance and counselling, Peris Ngala, said it was important for workers to remain mentally healthy to deliver top-notch service.
She further said that being mentally unhealthy is dangerous for workers.
“It is important that we not only remain physically healthy but also mentally healthy. This is because of the status of the workplace and other issues of society that people tend to have mental illness,” Ngala said.
“It is important for us to bring ourselves into awareness because mental illness is treatable. One can be treated and remain healthy,” she added.
Meanwhile, the head of guidance and counselling applauded the Eldoret National Polytechnic management for organizing the session for the staff.
She said the staff’s mental health is equally important.
“Mental health is something that everybody should be aware of. It can go beyond and also affect staff’s families,” Ngala said.
When is Mental Illness Awareness Week marked?
The first full week of October is Mental Illness Awareness Week, dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of mental health conditions. This annual event aims to reduce stigma and promote public education around mental health.
A staggering 1 out of 4 persons who seek healthcare in Kenya have a mental health condition. Depression is common and there are increasing rates of substance and alcohol use disorders.
