The recent passing of beloved actor Charles ‘Charli’ Ouda has reignited conversations about mental illness and suicide. Yet, as discussions unfold, it’s evident that society still grapples with how to approach these sensitive topics.
In many circles, suicide remains taboo, often viewed with scandal or even criminality. But to truly address the issue, we must delve deeper into the underlying factors, particularly those related to mental illness.
In Kenya, attempting suicide is considered a crime under Section 266 of the Penal Code, a law rooted in colonial ideology. Despite advancements in understanding mental health globally, our legal framework still reflects outdated perceptions.
Suicide cannot be labeled as a failure or a crime against humanity. Rather, it should be recognized as a symptom of mental illness—a call for compassion and support.
Author Susan Sontag aptly described society’s tendency to valorize certain diseases while stigmatizing others. Diseases like tuberculosis and cancer are often depicted as battles fought valiantly, while mental illness and suicide are viewed as weaknesses.
This stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide perpetuates silence and prevents individuals from seeking help. If we hope to change this narrative, we must challenge the language and perceptions that contribute to the stigma.
Suicide cannot be labeled as a failure or a crime against humanity. Rather, it should be recognized as a symptom of mental illness—a call for compassion and support.
By reframing how we discuss mental health and suicide, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those struggling with mental illness. It’s time to break the silence and empower individuals to seek the help they need.
