A file photo of depressed man. Photo: Istock
By Daisy Okiring
What drives a man to the edge, where ending his life seems like the only option? In recent years, Kenya has witnessed a disturbing increase in male suicide rates, raising urgent questions about the state of mental health in the country.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), 483 suicide cases were reported between April and June 2021, with men accounting for the vast majority. Central Kenya recorded the highest number, with 181 cases, followed by Rift Valley (68), Nyanza (67), and Nairobi (63).
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The youngest victim was only nine years old, while the oldest was 76. This trend is consistent with global statistics, which show that men are more likely to die by suicide than women due to cultural, economic, and psychological factors. Experts cite financial hardships, mental health stigma, relationship pressures, and social expectations as key factors driving men to despair.
“Men are expected to be strong and not show vulnerability, which makes it difficult for them to reach out for support,” says Dr. Gladys Mwiti, a psychologist working with trauma survivors.
The burden of economic hardships
One of the most significant contributors to the rising suicide rates among men is economic distress. Job losses, financial struggles, and the pressure to provide have left many men feeling hopeless.
A tragic case that highlights this reality is that of GW, a 28-year-old university student who was found unconscious next to empty medication bottles and alcohol containers. He had been laid off from his job as a night supervisor at a petrol station and had been relying on his girlfriend for financial support. After a heated argument, she threatened to leave him. Feeling abandoned and powerless, GW attempted to take his own life. Fortunately, he was discovered in time and taken to the hospital, where he received treatment. “He had a strong urge to end his life and struggled to establish rapport with doctors,” says Dr Ruth Masha, who handled his case.
The COVID-19 pandemic worsened Kenya’s economic situation, leaving thousands of men unemployed. The inability to provide for their families has caused many to sink into depression. “When men lose their jobs, they don’t just lose an income; they lose their identity,” explains Dr. Mwiti. “The pressure to be the provider is immense, and when they feel they’ve failed, they see no way out.”
The stigma around mental health
Despite the growing need for mental health support, Kenya’s mental health infrastructure is severely underdeveloped. The country has only around 100 psychiatrists and an estimated 400 psychologists to serve a population of over 50 million. This shortage means that even those who seek help may struggle to find it.
However, beyond the lack of resources, the stigma surrounding mental health is a major barrier. “People associate therapy with being weak or ‘crazy,’ so men suffer in silence,” says Dr. Mwiti. “We need to normalize conversations around mental health to prevent these tragedies.”
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The stigma also extends to suicide itself. In Kenya, attempting suicide is a criminal offense under the Penal Code, further discouraging those who need help. Many men fear seeking support due to potential legal repercussions. Mental health advocates argue that decriminalizing suicide could encourage more people to speak up and get the help they need.
Relationship and social pressures
Men also face immense relationship and social pressures, which can lead to suicidal thoughts. Breakups, domestic conflicts, and a lack of emotional support are significant triggers.
“Many young men struggle with peer pressure and unrealistic social expectations. They feel the need to prove themselves financially and emotionally. When they fail, they feel like they have lost their purpose,” states a report from the Youth Advisory Champions for Health.
Relationship breakdowns can be particularly devastating for men, as they often rely on their partners as their primary source of emotional support. “Men tend to have fewer close friendships where they can talk about their struggles,” says Dr. Mwiti. “When a relationship ends, they feel completely alone.”
The call for action
Mental health experts and organizations are calling for immediate action to address the rising suicide rates among men. Kenya currently has only 44 facilities offering mental health services, which is inadequate for the rising demand. Besides, mental health advocates argue that treating suicide as a crime only increases stigma and discourages people from seeking help. Encouraging men to speak openly about their struggles in safe spaces could reduce stigma and isolation.
“If we educate people about depression and anxiety, more men will seek help,” says Dr. Mwiti. He also adds, “It’s okay not to be okay,” “But it’s not okay to suffer in silence.”
For those struggling with suicidal thoughts, reaching out for help can make all the difference. Organizations such as Befrienders Kenya and the Red Cross provide 24-hour crisis hotlines. Mental health professionals urge families and friends to be more proactive in checking in on their loved ones. “A simple conversation could save a life,” Dr. Masha stresses.
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As Kenya grapples with this growing crisis, it is clear that urgent measures are needed to support men’s mental health. Breaking the silence, investing in mental health services, and fostering a culture where men feel safe to express their struggles could prevent countless tragedies. Suicide is not the answer—help is available, and hope is within reach.
