In honour of #worldsuicidepreventionday this September 10th, Dr. Hope is joined by @vanessakaniaru a mental health advocate and host of the Oh my mind! podcast for an empathetic, wide-ranging discussion aimed at breaking the silence and destigmatising mental health struggles.

Together they unpack Kenya's suicide statistics, the stigma-driven "reality gap" of underreported attempts, the progress made to decriminalize attempted suicide, and get into why we should reject arbitrary timelines and free ourselves from societal pressure.

Vanessa shares her personal mental health journey, recounting her diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), her struggles with unresolved grief after losing her mother, and a terrifying panic attack on a work trip.

They also explore how we can change the narrative on suicide and create environments where more of us feel able to speak up and seek help.

Listen in!

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If you or a loved one are going through a difficult situation, struggling with suicidal thoughts, or looking for a safe, confidential space to speak to a professional, support is available.

Connect with us📧 Email: sifahope93@gmail.com📱 Instagram, TikTok & LinkedIn: @adoseofhealththepodcast

Connect with Vanessa📱 Instagram & TikTok:@wanjiku_kaniaru, @ohmymind_podcastke

Production by @artlightstudios

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🩺 Disclaimer⚠️ This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For advice specific to your health, always consult your physician, psychiatrist or a qualified health provider.

#WorldSuicidePreventionDay #SuicidePrevention #BreakTheSilence #EndTheStigma #AnxietyDisorder #GAD #GriefJourney #PanicAttacks #TherapyWorks #CBT #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthKenya #ADoseOfHealth #DrHopeSimiyu #VanessaKaniaru #OhMyMindPodcast #HealthX