Behind every child’s smile is a world of emotions, thoughts, and struggles that often go unseen. Children’s mental health shapes how they learn, form friendships, handle stress, and dream about the future. Yet for many, this vital part of growing up remains neglected.
Good mental health is not optional — it’s foundational. Children need safe spaces, supportive families, and communities that care for their emotional well-being if they are to thrive.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO):
Between 10–20% of children and adolescents globally experience mental health disorders.
Most never receive diagnosis or treatment because of stigma, low awareness, or lack of resources.
The COVID-19 pandemic worsened the crisis, increasing stress, isolation, and vulnerability among children.
In Kenya, and even more in counties like Homabay, the story is no different. Poverty, violence, family instability, and limited access to care leave many children struggling in silence.
Across the world, WHO has called for early intervention and community-based mental health support. In Africa and East Africa, however, children’s mental health is still under-prioritized. Shortages of trained professionals and cultural stigma mean that most children face challenges without help. Organizations such as UNICEF and the African Child Policy Forum are pushing for stronger, inclusive policies — but progress is slow.
In Kenya, the Mental Health Policy (2015–2030) shows growing recognition of the issue, but children often remain on the margins of these efforts. Domestic violence, school pressures, and economic hardship increase risks.
Closer home in Homabay County, the situation is shaped by poverty, high HIV/AIDS rates, and weak mental health services. A few schools and NGOs are trying to raise awareness, but support is still too little, too late.
Children with good mental health are more likely to:
Perform better in school
Build healthy relationships
Grow into resilient adults
On the other hand, untreated issues often lead to poor academic performance, substance abuse, and long-term struggles. Simply put, investing in mental health is investing in children’s futures.
Parents play the biggest role in shaping children’s mental well-being. They are the first to notice changes, the first to comfort, and the strongest shield against stigma. When parents are involved, children feel safe, valued, and confident.
Ways parents can make a difference:
Promote open conversations: Let children express feelings without fear of judgment.
Offer steady support: Show love and patience, especially in tough times.
Stay observant: Notice warning signs like withdrawal, aggression, or mood swings.
Model coping skills: Demonstrate healthy ways of handling stress and setbacks.
Create a nurturing home: A safe, stable environment builds resilience.
Work with schools and professionals: Teachers and counselors are allies in care.
Encourage healthy habits: Sleep, exercise, balanced diet, and limited screen time matter.
One parent recently shared:
“When I started listening more and judging less, my son opened up about his struggles at school. It changed everything for us.”
Communities that encourage active parental involvement see children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. In schools where parents work with teachers, stigma reduces and children are more open to seeking help.
Stigma around mental health remains strong in many families.
Few trained child psychologists are available, especially outside major towns.
Poverty and instability increase stress at home, making it harder for parents to focus on mental health.
To truly transform children’s mental health, several steps are needed:
Train more teachers and healthcare providers in child mental health.
Encourage parents and community leaders to talk openly about emotions and well-being.
Invest in school-based and county-level mental health programs.
Normalize seeking help — just like we do for physical illness.
Every child deserves to grow up happy, supported, and resilient. Open conversations at home, stronger community support, and investment in school-based programs can all make a difference. Protecting children’s mental health is not just about the present — it is about securing a brighter, healthier future for generations to come.