Z

Z first shared their experience with On The Move, Tinada Youth Organization & Mental 360. They are working to raise awareness and create support systems for those living with mental health conditions in Kenya as well as advocating for their rights. Like us, they believe sharing stories breaks down the barriers that makes seeking help hard.

1. I 22 I Nyando District

Z., a former salonist, was diagnosed with psychosis in 2011, after she lost her pair of twins days apart.

“I suffered from adjustment disorder then became violent. They said I was destroying things at the hospital and beating up people. My violent episodes recurred later, with my 2nd pregnancy. My family understands me, but other people do not. They run away from me calling me ‘mad woman’. This is distressing for me because I do not do those things while in a sound state of mind.” Z.’s mother is concerned for her daughter, because she has attempted suicide 3 times, sometimes out of despair. Z. concludes: “Ever since I left hospital I am no longer violent. I take my drugs and I feel better. I am trying to get my life on track.” But some people still give Z. a hard time: “I tried to get my old salon job back but they said no- ‘you are not normal’.”

“With or without mental illness, I am a human being. Treat me like one!”