Where do Africa’s Gen Z's turn to for help with mental health challenges?
Aug 1, 2024
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In this engaging discussion, Tom Osborn, the founder of the Shamiri Initiative, sheds light on the mental health struggles faced by Kenya's Gen Z amidst rising activism. He reveals how social media fuels both youth resilience and the demand for change. The conversation also highlights the challenges young people endure, from trauma to societal pressures, and the urgent need for accessible mental health resources. Personal stories from the youth provide insight into their experiences and the path toward empowerment in the face of adversity.
The rise in activism among Kenya's youth is intricately tied to their mental health struggles, driven by societal pressures and limited opportunities.
Access to mental health resources remains inadequate, prompting young people to seek guidance through social media and peer networks instead of traditional systems.
Deep dives
Youth Activism and Mental Health
The rising activism among young people in Kenya, particularly from Generation Z, has been closely linked to their struggles with mental health. Many young individuals educated and informed about societal issues are confronting the reality of their dreams being thwarted by limited job opportunities, leading to feelings of frustration and hopelessness. Tom Osborne of the Shamiri Institute highlights that a significant number of Kenyan youth report symptoms of anxiety and depression, driven by the pressure to succeed and the lack of pathways to achieve their aspirations. This mental health crisis is further exacerbated by young people feeling compelled to advocate for societal change, with many expressing a willingness to die for their cause, as they seek a better future for their generation.
Impact of Protests on Mental Well-Being
The ongoing protests in Kenya have profoundly affected the mental health of young people, particularly through exposure to violence and loss of life. Many express trauma from witnessing their peers suffer during demonstrations, which not only impacts their individual well-being but also reinforces their motivation to fight for their rights. This has transformed the protests from a singular political issue into a broader movement for liberation, reminiscent of historical struggles against systemic injustices. The loss of life during these events has led to a collective empowerment among youth, inspiring them to persist in their fight against oppression despite the inherent risks involved.
Navigating Mental Health Support
Access to mental health resources for young people in Kenya remains a considerable challenge, as traditional support systems often fail to meet their needs. Many young individuals are turning to social media and peer networks for guidance, due to the disconnect between existing support systems and the realities they face. Tom Osborne notes that significant improvements are necessary in the approach to mental health care, emphasizing the importance of creating awareness and normalizing the dialogue around mental health issues. Young people are calling for actionable changes in how mental health services are delivered, promoting an environment where seeking help is recognized as a crucial step towards enhancing their overall well-being.
Hidden behind the fearlessness displayed by Kenyan youths during recent anti-government protests could be a mountain of mental health challenges.
A mental health expert says this is linked to the extra responsibilities young people are having to take up in a continent where the median age is 19.
But while mental health awareness is high among the youth, access to mental health services remains limited.
In this episode of Africa Daily Alan Kasujja talks to Tom Osborn- the founder of the Shamiri Institute which uses a peer-based model to support young people in navigating their mental health challenges.
He argues that the growth in activism among the youth – often honed on social media – is intrinsically linked to the mental health of young people.
We also hear from young people on their mental health experiences.
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