White paper on adolescent mental health in Kenya

Executive Summary: Adolescence is a crucial window for mental health intervention, as most conditions begin before age 18. Nearly one in three Kenyan adolescents experience moderate to severe symptoms of depression and anxiety, yet mental health remains largely overlooked in policy and public health planning. Shamiri Institute and the Africa Institute for Mental and Brain Health (AfriMeb) conducted a comprehensive multi-year study (2021-2023) involving over 7,800 students from 27 secondary schools across four counties.

Key Findings: Thirty percent of students had moderate to severe depression symptoms; 25% had moderate to severe anxiety. Symptoms were highest in 2021, dropped in 2022, then rose slightly in 2023. Depression and anxiety were deeply intertwined, sharing 84% of underlying causes. Strong social support and sense of control emerged as vital protective factors.

Implications: The white paper presents findings and translates evidence into practical policy recommendations across eight critical areas, offering a roadmap for coordinated cross-sector action.