1 out of 4 persons who seek healthcare in Kenya have a mental health condition with depression and anxiety disorders are the leading mental illnesses
diagnosed in Kenya, followed by substance use disorders.”The majority of Kenyans associate mental health and mental illness with negative narratives leading to a low focus on the importance and benefits of mental health and well-being.Slum residents (people living in informal settlements)have the worst health and socioeconomic outcomes out of any social group in Kenya, with limited access to education, employment, water, and sanitation. They are found to be more likely to be exposed to violence and social unrest.

Nivishe Headquarters is located in Kibra (one of the largest informal urban settlements in Africa) characterized by community, family, and individual
triggers to poor mental health such as poor social and health care provision, poor housing, and domestic violence. Women, girls (including teen mothers), and children are the most vulnerable in this community.Mental health advocacy and psycho-social support are important now more than ever due to emerging pressures brought forth by the adverse effects of the Covid-19 pandemic since 2022, high cost of living, etc. Mental ill-health is both a consequence and a cause of inequalities. These vulnerable communities are therefore very susceptible to the causes and effects of mental ill
health.