This archive report was first published on 19 May 2020.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, a group of sports personalities in Kenya has taken it upon themselves to highlight the plight of vulnerable people in society.
From distributing relief food to their less fortunate colleagues and families to sending coronavirus awareness messages through social and mainstream media, local sportsmen and women have become part of the pandemic fight.
One such initiative is the mental health awareness campaign launched by Kisumu-based Lakers Hockey Club in May 2020, a month dedicated to mental health awareness.
The campaign, which aims to educate Kenyans on the importance of taking matters of mental health seriously and how to overcome some of the disorders, has expanded to include players from eight other hockey teams.
According to Judith Abayo, the left back in charge of the campaign, the idea behind it is to ensure Kenyans remain mentally healthy during this difficult moment of the coronavirus pandemic.
“This forum is meant to make people aware of their mental health. It is an opportunity for people to reflect on their conscious mind and to know that it is not all about physical health but mental health too,” Abayo said.
Players from the club have shared their experiences with mental health, and the findings are shared on the club's social media accounts in form of write-ups or videos.
As Abayo noted, “During this critical time, people are going through a lot. They can relate to each other’s experiences and learn how to cope with their situation.”
Other players, including Miriam Sitna and Suzzan Mureithi, have also shared their thoughts on mental health, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and support.
According to a 2017 World Health Organization report, over two million Kenyans suffer from mental health problems.
Additionally, a report released in April by global players’ union Fifpro noted that an increasing number of professional footballers are struggling with anxiety and depression due to lack of matches.
