In Kenya today, many young people are juggling school, family expectations, friendships, future plans, and pressure from their communities. While a certain level of stress is a normal part of growing up, constant or overwhelming stress can negatively affect a young person’s mental health. Some of the most common mental health challenges faced by Kenyan youth include stress, anxiety, and peer pressure.
Stress is very common among young people, especially when it comes to academics. After sitting for national examinations, many students feel intense pressure to perform well. Parents, teachers, and even neighbours are eager to know the results, and this can make young people feel overwhelmed. When the results are not as expected, some students experience disappointment, fear, and stress about their future.
Career pressure is another major source of stress. Many young people have dreams of becoming something in the future, such as an accountant, teacher, or engineer. However, sometimes parents or guardians advise them to choose courses they believe are more “marketable.” This can leave young people feeling confused, anxious, and unsure of themselves, leading to low self-confidence and poor concentration in school.
Anxiety is a constant feeling of worry, fear, or nervousness. Many Kenyan youth feel anxious about life after school or college due to high unemployment, limited job opportunities, and the rising cost of living. They worry about whether they will get a job, support their families, or achieve their life goals. These constant worries about the future can lead to ongoing stress and anxiety.
Social media also contributes to anxiety among young people. Many youths are exposed to images and videos showing luxurious lifestyles, academic success, perfect bodies, and happy relationships. This can create the impression that everyone else is doing better in life. For example, a student may feel anxious after seeing friends post about graduation, new jobs, or business success while they are still struggling to find their way.
Peer pressure is when someone feels influenced by friends or people of the same age to behave in a certain way, even when they are uncomfortable. This pressure can be either positive or negative. In many cases, young people feel pressured to drink alcohol, smoke, or skip school because their friends are doing it. This can lead to health risks, legal trouble, and damage to one’s reputation.
Peer pressure can also affect career choices and personal interests. Some young people abandon their dreams or hobbies just to fit in with their friends, which can cause long-term stress and regret.
Young people can manage these challenges by:
If this article has helped you understand youth mental health better, please consider sharing it with a young person, parent, teacher, or anyone who might benefit from it. You never know, sharing this information could help someone feel seen, understood, and supported.