By Kamadi Amata
Young people in Dagoretti are facing growing challenges, with unemployment and stress emerging as two of the most pressing issues. As job opportunities remain scarce and the cost of living continues to rise, many youths are struggling to cope with the pressure of daily life—leading to a significant impact on their mental well-being.
Brian Marwa, the chairman of a local Christian youth group, says many young people have turned to community-based solutions to survive. He explains that some churches offer small loans to help the youth start informal businesses and sustain themselves in the absence of formal employment.
However, for others like John Njoroge and Austin Wamalwa, life after graduation has been far from easy. Despite completing their education, both say that securing jobs remains an uphill task, with most opportunities requiring years of experience or connections they don’t have.
Experts are now warning of a rise in mental health issues linked to financial instability and joblessness. Mary Gathii, a counseling psychologist based in Nyahururu, believes that mental distress among young people is often rooted in economic hardships. Her organization offers counseling services and works to connect the youth with training and job placement opportunities as a long-term solution.
In Uthiru, residents have reported a noticeable increase in mental health cases, especially among young people. Many attribute this to drug abuse, peer pressure, and a lack of positive role models or community programs.
While awareness around mental health has grown, misconceptions still persist. Bishop Susan Wanjiku, a member of the National Parents Association of Kenya, points out that not all mental health issues stem from personal circumstances. She emphasizes that conditions like depression and anxiety can be clinical and affect anyone, regardless of their social or economic background.
Recent data paints a troubling picture. Nairobi County recorded over 53,000 reported cases of mental health conditions in 2024, the highest in the country. Depression and anxiety were the most common diagnoses, often triggered by unemployment, poverty, and social pressures.
Despite the urgency, access to mental health care in Nairobi remains limited. Facilities like Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kenya’s main public psychiatric institution, are overwhelmed and underfunded. The shortage of mental health professionals and insufficient investment in infrastructure continues to hinder effective response to the crisis.
As these issues persist, community leaders, experts, and residents alike are calling for coordinated action—emphasizing the need for job creation, mental health awareness, and government support to safeguard the future of Kenya’s youth.
