Tragedy Sparks Action: Health Ministry Introduces Wellness Program After Doctor’s Suicide
The Ministry of Health has launched a new mental wellness program targeting all healthcare workers across the country, following the tragic death of intern doctor Desree Moraa, who reportedly took her own life after enduring long hours of work at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital in Kiambu County.
The announcement, made on Tuesday by Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa, emphasized the need to strengthen support systems for healthcare professionals facing mental health challenges. The program, to be implemented in collaboration with County Governments, aims to ensure that no healthcare worker feels isolated or unsupported, particularly during challenging times.
CS Barasa described Dr. Moraa’s death as a wake-up call to address the growing mental health issues within the healthcare sector. “The loss of Dr. Moraa is a reminder of the silent battles many of our healthcare professionals face. We must work together to provide an environment that supports their well-being,” she stated.
Moraa’s body was discovered hanging from her bedroom balcony on Sunday night. Her colleagues revealed that she had been working for about 36 hours without rest, highlighting the grueling working conditions faced by many healthcare workers. A note left behind detailed her struggles, further underscoring the urgent need for improved mental health support within the sector.
In response to the tragedy, CS Barasa assured that measures would be taken to improve working conditions for all healthcare workers. “We owe it to our healthcare professionals to create an environment that promotes their well-being, both physically and mentally,” she added, expressing her condolences to Dr. Moraa’s family, friends, and colleagues.
The launch of this mental wellness program comes as a crucial step toward recognizing and addressing the pressures faced by healthcare workers, who often serve on the frontlines of critical situations. The Ministry of Health is urging all healthcare professionals to reach out for support when needed and has reminded them of available resources, including the Kenya Red Cross toll-free hotline, 1199, which offers counseling and support services.
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Tragedy Sparks Action: Health Ministry Introduces Wellness Program After Doctor’s Suicide
