04/03/2026
Two years ago, I graduated from Nivishe Foundation as a Mental Health Advocate. At first, I wasn’t sure why I should dedicate my time to this course. In my African traditional community, mental health is rarely discussed and often not treated as a priority. Most of us grew up with little or no correct information about mental health. For a long time, mental illness was associated with witchcraft, curses, jealousy, or “kurogwa.” It was only considered serious when someone behaved extremely walking naked in the market or acting violently and quickly labeled “muguroki” or “wazimu,” often ending up tied with ropes and taken to Mathari Hospital. Trauma, depression, anxiety, or emotional pain were never topics of conversation.
Today, mental health has become the “new silent cancer,” slowly eating into homes and families without noise. Extreme poverty, social and economic pressures, the high cost of living, rising unemployment, dysfunctional marriages, domestic violence, absent parents, broken homes, drug and substance abuse, social media pressure, cyberbullying, academic stress, lack of mentorship, and unresolved trauma are all contributing to anxiety, depression, anger, and hopelessness in both adults and children.
Mental health struggles may not be visible like physical illness, but they are real. They show up in stress, withdrawal, aggression, poor decision-making, broken relationships, and even su***de attempts. Mental health is directly linked to the very challenges we often thought were separate from it.
The training I received from Nivishe Foundation opened my eyes. It gave me knowledge, confidence, and courage to speak openly about mental health and childhood trauma. Today, I am committed to creating awareness and supporting healing because ignoring mental health silently destroys families, while addressing it strengthens homes, protects children, and builds resilient communities.
At Better Bright Tomorrow, we recognize that mental health affects not only adults but also children, teenagers, and young people. Many school-going children silently struggle with trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, family conflict, academic pressure, bullying, and exposure to drugs and violence. Their struggles are often misunderstood and labeled as “bad behavior” or indiscipline. We support young people through behavior reinforcement programs, mentorship, counseling, and safe spaces where they can express themselves without fear of judgment. By working closely with schools, families, and communities, we ensure children receive emotional support alongside academic guidance, helping them grow into emotionally stable and responsible adults.
Healing and mental wellness are essential for healthy growth and development. If you or someone you know needs support, do not suffer in silence reach out to us. At Better Bright Tomorrow, we are dedicated to walking with you on your journey toward recovery and a brighter tomorrow.
