3507 - INTEGRATING CLIMATE CHANGE INTO KENYA'S NATIONAL MENTAL HEALTH POLICY

Session: 3491 - CLIMATE CHANGE AND MENTAL HEALTH IN AFRICA: PSYCHOLOGICAL RESILIENCE, VULNERABILITY, AND POLICY INNOVATIONS
AUTHORS:
Swaleh Amina (Pwani University ~ Kilifi ~ Kenya)
Abstract text:
Kenya's National Mental Health Policy (2015-2030) emphasizes access, equity, and integration, yet climate change is absent from its framework. This paper critically analyzes policy gaps and proposes pathways for integrating climate-mental health linkages into existing health and disaster management systems. Drawing on best practices from global south countries, it outlines strategies for mainstreaming mental health into climate adaptation projects, training mental health practitioners on climate trauma, and strengthening cross-sectoral collaboration. The paper calls for urgent policy revisions to ensure climate change is recognized as both an environmental and mental health crisis in Kenya.