Mental Health

Mental health care at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term management of a wide range of psychiatric and psychosocial conditions affecting individuals across all age groups.

As the burden of mental health conditions continues to rise, the hospital has strengthened access to structured, compassionate, and continuous mental health services delivered through outpatient care, counselling, psychotherapy, and community-based interventions.

The Mental Health Department manages conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, trauma-related disorders, and stress-related conditions. Mental health challenges are increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern, with data from Kisumu County indicating that approximately 36% of healthcare workers experience mental health-related symptoms such as stress, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress, reflecting a broader burden within both the healthcare workforce and the general population.

To improve access to care, psychiatric outpatient services are offered every Wednesday and Friday at the JOOTRH Consultant’s Clinic, while specialized psychiatric and psychotherapy services are conducted every Friday from 2:00 PM at the Prime Care Center (PCC). These clinics provide psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, medication management, psychotherapy, counselling, and structured follow-up care in a confidential and supportive environment.

The hospital has also strengthened early identification and prevention through mental health screening initiatives targeting both staff and the wider community. These screenings assess emotional, cognitive, and behavioural well-being, enabling early detection of psychological distress and timely intervention. Evidence from hospital-based programs shows that early engagement significantly improves recovery outcomes and reduces the risk of chronic mental health conditions.

In response to growing mental health needs, JOOTRH has expanded its counselling and psychosocial support services, integrating mental health care into broader clinical services and wellness programs. The hospital also conducts awareness activities and outreach engagements aimed at reducing stigma, improving public understanding of mental health, and encouraging individuals to seek help without fear or discrimination.

A key focus area is workplace mental health, particularly among healthcare workers who face high levels of occupational stress. Structured support systems, counselling services, and wellness initiatives have been introduced to promote resilience, emotional well-being, and improved service delivery within the hospital environment.

Community outreach activities, including mental health sensitization forums and psychosocial support engagements, continue to play a vital role in increasing awareness and improving access to care.
Through outpatient psychiatry services, psychotherapy, counselling, screening programs, and outreach initiatives, the Mental Health Department at JOOTRH continues to strengthen access to quality mental health care, reduce stigma, and promote recovery, dignity, and well-being for individuals and communities across the region.