Nairobi: The State Department of Information and Broadcasting has kicked off a series of mental wellness sensitization forums focused on mental wellness and psychosocial support for field staff aimed at fostering healthier work environments. These initiatives are specifically designed to tackle workplace stress and equip frontline civil servants to better handle high-pressure environments.
According to Kenya News Agency, the mental health sensitization meetings aspire to transform participants into advocates for mental wellness, promote work-life balance, and diminish the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. Esther Wanjau, Director of Information and in-charge of ICT, emphasized the adverse effects of limited access to professional counseling, such as workplace conflicts and increased burnout among staff, during a forum held in Mombasa.
Director Wanjau highlighted the department’s commitment to introducing targeted counseling interventions and capacity-building programs. These measures are aimed at enhancing staff wellbeing, improving service delivery, and fostering public trust. She stressed the importance of counseling in reducing burnout, managing stress, and boosting productivity.
The department’s staff and interns will receive guidance on recognizing mental health challenges, building resilience, and nurturing healthier work environments. Wanjau also noted the Public Service Commission’s recognition of mental health challenges faced by civil servants, which include stress, trauma, and burnout. This acknowledgment has led to the establishment of internal counseling units across all state departments.
Assistant Director of Wellness and Counselling, Irene Chepkwony, pointed out the financial impact of workplace mental health challenges on public institutions, citing poor performance and absenteeism. Chepkwony emphasized that employee wellbeing is not merely a welfare issue but a strategic necessity, particularly in demanding work environments.
Chepkwony explained that mental health issues, if left unaddressed, could affect productivity, staff engagement, and organizational sustainability. She underscored the importance of creating psychologically safe environments for those experiencing mental distress and highlighted the role of mental wellness in conflict prevention, leadership, and employee resilience.
Chepkwony also warned that poor mental health often goes unnoticed until it significantly impacts staff performance and attendance. She pointed out the relationship between mental wellness and productivity, noting that organizations prioritizing wellbeing often experience higher motivation levels, stronger teamwork, and improved overall performance.
Furthermore, Chepkwony addressed the issue of employees turning to drugs and alcohol as coping mechanisms when facing mental health struggles without professional support. This, she explained, only exacerbates the mental health issues over time. She encouraged staff to seek support before challenges escalate into more serious health crises and called for mental health to be viewed as a core component of organizational strategy, rather than an issue addressed only during crises.
