Afya Care Foundation

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My name is John Ibrahim, and I work with Refugee Life Ross, a community organization. It was a great privilege for all of us to be part of the training today, which was organized by Rikiki Lagaresis in partnership with Afya Care Foundation. The training was incredibly powerful, and it has given us hope while providing a clear way forward to address the issues facing our community. Throughout the training, we realized that the focus was not only on finding solutions for the community, but also on raising awareness. The goal is to restore hope within the community, as people's lives are shaped by different thoughts, experiences, and lifestyles. It’s essential that we acknowledge this diversity while addressing mental health concerns. We are truly grateful for today’s session, as it has made a significant impact. It has raised awareness in both the community and within our organization about the importance of addressing mental health issues. We now recognize the need to provide mental health services and create more awareness, ensuring that these issues are tackled through various means, such as facilitating support and creating solutions to minimize the challenges. To fellow refugees experiencing mental health struggles, my advice is to restore hope. It’s important to seek help when faced with situations that are overwhelming and difficult to manage on your own. I encourage those affected to seek counseling or other forms of assistance to restore their health and prevent further risks to their well-being

My name is Nimo Korane. I had the opportunity to meet with the Afya Care Foundation this morning. During the session, they discussed mental illness, and it was actually my first time learning about the different issues related to it. I never knew how to recognize mental illness or how someone can identify if they are struggling with it. Today, I learned a lot. I was taught the signs and symptoms of mental illness, and more importantly, how I can protect myself and prevent it. One of the simplest things I can do is practice breathing in and out, which doesn’t cost anything but can help. I also learned that mental health is something I can manage through my own actions. I didn’t even realize I was one of those people dealing with mental health issues until this morning when I heard more about it. I now understand the signs, such as isolating myself from others, sleeping too much, feeling stressed, and having a lack of mood. I recognize that I’ve experienced some of these symptoms myself. I am truly grateful for the information shared by Afya Care. It has opened my eyes, and moving forward, I plan to visit the hospital or reach out to others who might be struggling with similar issues, in the hope of helping myself and supporting others who need it. The time we spent there, though short, was incredibly valuable. The knowledge I gained is something I can apply to help myself and also assist those around me who might be going through the same challenges. Thank you so much for the opportunity to learn and grow

"An anonymous patient from Kitale reached out in deep distress, having researched ways to end their life with minimal pain due to heartbreak over a loved one and feelings of isolation. They expressed frustration with their situation and anger towards their family and community, feeling robbed of their happiness. After contacting AfyaCare, the patient received immediate emotional support, counseling, and follow-up care, and is now in a safer mental space, with ongoing help to manage their feelings and rebuild hope."

"I struggled with alcohol addiction for many years, feeling alone and hopeless. Afya Care helped me find strength I never knew I had. Through their counseling sessions, I was able to quit drinking and focus on my family again. Now, I’m rebuilding my life and supporting others who are struggling."

"My mental health was deteriorating because of peer pressure and stress at school, leading me to start using substances. Afya Care Foundation gave me the support and therapy I needed to recover and rebuild my confidence. Today, I am studying psychology so I can help others in similar situations."

"I had kept my struggles with addiction hidden from my family for years. The support and understanding I received from Afya Care changed my life. They guided me through my recovery journey with compassion and patience, and I’m proud to say that I am now six months sober."

"When I lost my job, I turned to drugs, and soon enough, I hit rock bottom. Afya Care Foundation offered free group therapy and one-on-one counseling that helped me work through my pain without substances. With their help, I am now employed again and staying strong in my recovery."

"Depression made me feel trapped, and drugs seemed like the only way to escape. But Afya Care showed me a different path. With their mental health support and therapy sessions, I’ve regained my happiness and learned how to manage my emotions. I am now advocating for mental wellness in my community."