This archive report was first published on 27 October 2021.
On October 23rd, 2021, Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) took a significant step towards improving mental health care in the city. The NMS has created mental health departments in all new level 2 and level 3 facilities, as well as various level 4 hospitals.
According to Dr. Mohamed Musa, the Deputy Medical Director at NMS, these facilities have been matched with health personnel, including over 23 mental health specialists. This move aims to provide comprehensive mental health care services to the residents of Nairobi.
Dr. Musa highlighted that the city has 23 specialists in mental health at level 4 facilities, including Mama Lucy, Pumwani, and Mbagathi hospitals. Additionally, specialist nurses are available at level 2 and level 3 facilities.
‘For the first time through NMS, we have employed more than 20 psychologists who are helping in establishing these centres,’ Dr. Musa said during the ninth annual Ecobank Day celebrations.
Ecobank Head of Credit & Risk Management Kenya & EAC, Tom Okumu, emphasized the importance of mental health. He noted that mental health includes emotional, physical, and social well-being, affecting how individuals think, act, feel, relate to others, handle stress, and make choices.
Mr. Okumu stated that across the world, one billion people suffer from mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and dementia. He urged everyone to show support and empathy to those suffering from mental health and avoid the stigma and discrimination surrounding it.
