May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to highlighting the importance of mental health and well-being.
At Upili we focus on tapping into the energy of this month (and all those before and after) to make significant strides by moving beyond mere awareness to meaningful action.
Our program, Counselors with Disabilities coming into Kenyan special schools to conduct group counseling sessions for Students with Disabilities, brings awareness to a crucial gap in mental health support for this demographic.
Upili was founded on the awareness Students with Disabilities face unique challenges, including stigma, trauma, and foundational self-esteem issues. These challenges significantly impact both mental health and academic performance. Upili steps in and takes action to fill this void by providing tailored counseling services from professionals who not only understand the struggles but have lived them.
The presence of Counselors with Disabilities serves as a powerful example of resilience and empowerment for the students. These professionals are relatable role models, demonstrating for the youth they can overcome societal barriers and lead fulfilling, successful lives. Additionally the group sessions foster a safe space for students to express feelings, share experiences, and build a supportive, connected community that remains strong after the sessions end.
Upili’s approach goes beyond raising awareness.
At Upili we embody the transition from recognition of psychosocial support gaps to tangible actions that serve to promote well-being, confidence and resilience. The program emphasizes awareness alone is not enough; it must be coupled with concrete support systems and inclusive practices. By integrating Upili within the school environment, we ensure the therapeutic help is accessible and ‘normalized’, making it easier for students to become vulnerable and reach out.
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, we remind ourselves, again, of the importance of action.
We remind ourselves the actions we take today will have a lasting impact on Youth with Disabilities, providing them the tools they need to thrive after secondary school and preparing them to confidently navigate the world of work serving as advocates for themselves and others.
The difference between awareness and action lies in their scope and impact.
Awareness (spreading knowledge and understanding about mental health challenges) creates a foundation of empathy and recognition. Action, however, is where meaningful change occurs. Action is when knowledge is applied to develop resources, support systems, and direct interventions.
As we transition from awareness to action, we not only acknowledge mental health struggles but actively contribute to solutions that can make a difference. This shift is crucial, particularly during Mental Health Awareness Month, to ensure that momentum gained from increased awareness leads to substantial, lasting improvements in global mental health care and support.
