SPEAK MIND LOVE FOUNDATION: from lived experience to advocacy

Maureen Gikonyo • Jan 25, 2021
Speak Mind Love Foundation is a youth led mental health organization based in Kenya, that focuses on awareness raising, advocacy, resilient building and mentorship. It was established in December 2018 by Maureen Gikonyo and Immaculate Karanja who both share lived experiences in depression and anxiety. This came about after the realization that mental health was a taboo topic due to lack of awareness in the country. In addition, accessibility of mental health was also proving to be futile, especially for the youth coming from humble backgrounds who are even more vulnerable. In 2017, Kenya was ranked 6th in Africa, among the countries with the highest rate of depression. Majority of this population, are young people. This came about due to various social and economic challenges such as: abuse. gender based violence, unemployment, societal pressure, early teenage pregnancies, illiteracy among other factors.

According to WHO, 10-20% of children & adolescents, have a mental health challenge. Half of this cases begin by age 14 years. Unfortunately, due to poor surveillance systems, most of this case goes undetected/untreated. Suicide, on the other hand, is the second leading cause of death among young people of between ages 14-29 years. It is for this reason, that our target audience is the youth. We highly believe that this age group is the most productive age and is effective, when it comes to problem solving especially in mental health preventative measures.

Since 2018, we have been able to have various achievements in awareness raising, advocacy, resilient building & mentorship. We have practiced mental health awareness at the grassroot level, in churches, schools and in various communities in our country. In addition, our team has taken part in various discussions on mental health, both internationally & locally, as panelists, on various platforms including national television. In 2019, during the World MH Day, our organization was successful in coming up and hosting the first ever mental health walk in the country that attracted approximately, 2000 participants. This was in collaboration with the Nairobi County Government of Kenya, different youth led organizations, international organizations, youth leaders and advocates. Through the walk, we were able to create massive awareness through various approaches such as art. We were also able to advocate for mental health in our country and bring to the realization that there is a menace in our country that needed attention. In addition, we were also successful in reaching out to various communities with MH materials through the community leaders. In 2020, due to the COVID 19 restrictions, Speak Mind Love Foundation, in collaboration with The Ministry of Health and other youth led organizations, was able to carry out a virtual campaign for two months dubbed Walk A Mind. The campaign attracted approximately 4000 internet users with the #WalkAMind trending at number 5 in Kenya on the World Mental Health Day. The campaign was able to achieve massive awareness raising, establishment of various innovative aspects in mental health field during & post COVID 19 through a multi-dimensional approach, advocacy through the establishment of a communique among other various achievements.

Working in the mental health field, has been both amazing & a learning process. We have learnt to listen to understand rather than to respond. Secondly, we have also had the privilege to witness the potential of young people with lived experiences. When it comes to problem solving especially in mental health, young people are the most innovative hence it is imperative for countries to begin to involve persons with lived experiences in policy formulations and implementation. There is great potential in the community when it comes to mental wellness. For this reason, empowerment should be made a core value. This way, it will also give persons with lived experience a platform for their voices to be heard and for the community to take action on the menace by embracing awareness raising, community mental health programs & research. There is a dire need to normalize community dialogues and conversations on mental health. The most important lesson we have learnt, is that everybody has a role to play when it comes to mental health. This includes: individual, community, national and international level.

Challenges are inevitable in every journey, that therefore does not exempt our organization. Our major challenge has been stigma in the society. For the longest time, mental health had not been recognized in our society. It has been a taboo topic being linked to witchcraft in some communities. This therefore prevented most people from opening up and seeking help. It has taken much effort to sensitize the community on mental health and we couldn’t be happier to witness the changes that are happening. We are on a great journey to ensure that mental health, is a priority for every person. 

To any young person out there who wants to improve mental health in their community, we hope you know that you are capable. If you have a dream, start working on it. There will never be a perfect timing. Start walking. The society needs you and is looking up to you to be the voice. In Mahatma Gandhi’s words, “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” Be the change you would want to see. Begin.

For more information:

Email: info@speakmindlove.org

Phone Number: +254713659188/ +254713314225

www.speakmindlove.org

Instagram: @speak_mind_love_foundation

Facebook: Speak Mind Love Foundation 

Twitter: SML_Kenya

Session Attendees at the Egerton University Event

Fellowship Diaries: GULI Club at Egerton University, Kenya

By Lydia Bennett-Li • 03 Dec, 2023
On 11th November, GenMH University Mental Health Fellow, Gakii Mwithali, organised a hugely successful mental health training session attended by over 350 students of Egerton University in Kenya. The event was hosted by GULI Club and sponsored by GenMH, and focussed on the following topics: Mental Health Literacy; Sexual harassment and its implication on mental health among the youth; Contraception among the youth and its implications and; Effects of FGM on mental health among the youth.
People sitting in a park

Low cost ways to prioritise your mental health

By Lydia Bennett-Li • 01 Apr, 2023
The current economic climate has had a significant impact on mental health. Lasting impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, along with increasing global instability have exacerbated existing mental health inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. It's essential to prioritize mental health during these difficult times by seeking support, practicing self-care, and staying connected with others. However, looking after your mental health doesn't have to be expensive. Here are some low-cost or free ways to prioritize your mental well-being: Spend time in nature: From a short walk in your local park, to a weekend camping trip, taking a break from technology to spend some time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and promote feelings of wellbeing. Find new ways to be active: Exercise has numerous benefits for mental health, including reducing stress and anxiety. It can also be a great way to meet new people. You don't need an expensive gym membership; a simple walk, jog, or yoga session can make a significant difference. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce stress and promote emotional refection. There are numerous free resources online, including guided meditation apps or videos on YouTube. Connect with others: Social connections are essential for mental health. It can be difficult to find time for friends and family in an increasingly online world. However, making time to go for a picnic with friends or joining a local social group can make a significant positive impact on your mental health. Prioritise sleep: Lack of sleep can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. Prioritize getting enough sleep each night by establishing a consistent sleep routine and limiting screen time before bed. Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people, give you an feeling of purpose and meaning, and also increase your self confidence. Consider volunteering with an organisation in your local community or even starting your own organisation/initiative! Looking after your mental health doesn't have to be expensive. By prioritizing self-care and making small changes to your daily routine, you can improve your mental well-being without breaking the bank.
Share by: