About one in 5 men in Bungoma County is battling suicidal thoughts [Getty]
Bungoma County has intensified efforts to address mental health challenges affecting men through a sensitisation forum aimed at promoting mental wellness and breaking the culture of silence. A key men’s mental health awareness event bringing together hundreds of participants was held at Masinde Muliro Stadium in Kanduyi.
The event, organised by the county Directorate of Youth and Sports, in partnership with health experts, focused on prevention, early intervention and emotional well-being. The medics were also offering tools for screening, advice and understanding how best the situation can be tackled. The County’s Youth and Sports director Kalamu David said the forum featured sporting activities including football, cycling and other recreational exercises as part of a campaign to encourage healthy lifestyles and help men manage stress.
Speakers challenged men to openly share their struggles and seek professional support instead of suffering in silence, noting that men's mental health has been neglected for many years despite the unique pressures they face. They also expressed concern over the rising number of suicide cases among men, emphasising that regular awareness campaigns, community support and timely counselling are critical in reversing the trend and safeguarding families and communities.
