From a young age, Odhiambo Ogolla struggled with undiagnosed mental health conditions, facing difficulties in school and enduring the misguided beliefs of his community.
However, his journey towards self-discovery, acceptance, and advocacy has transformed his life and inspired countless others.
Odhiambo’s journey with mental illness began in his childhood, where he faced both dyslexia and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD).
However, lacking awareness and understanding, his difficulties in reading and focus were often misinterpreted by his family and community.
His mother, attributing his behavior to witchcraft, sought spiritual intervention instead of medical help.
“My mother came with the allegations that I was bewitched because sometimes I felt burn out that made me feel insane,” ongolla says.
This misunderstanding only added to Odhiambo’s confusion and isolation.
Despite the challenges he faced, Odhiambo’s determination and strength propelled him forward.
He refused to let his mental health conditions define him and pursued a path of education and professional growth.
Through perseverance, he rose to become the head of Digital Humanitarian at Kenya Red Cross, a Government Advisor, and a collaborator with the United Nations.
“This never stopped me from becoming the head of Digital Humanitarian at Kenya red cross,a government advisor,and working with United Nations,” he says.
It was during his time working with the Red Cross that Odhiambo’s self-awareness heightened.
He recognized the signs of his mental health struggles and decided to seek help.
“During my time with red cross,I realized I had mental issues and sought help at Mathare hospital,”
He further stressed that,”in 2020,during the COVID -19 I found myself thinking of suicide.”
Taking a courageous step, he went to Mathare Hospital, where he received guidance from three doctors on managing and coping with his mental illness.
“Seeking help at Mathare hospital,I received guidance from three specialist in dealing with my mental illness,”he noted.
This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his journey towards healing and self-acceptance.
However, Odhiambo’s mental health journey also brought challenges to his personal life.
His spouse struggled to understand his condition and feared the unpredictable nature of his burnouts.
“My marriage faced challenges as my partner couldn’t understand my conditions.She fear being associated with me during burn out,”he states.
This lack of understanding placed strains on their relationship, ultimately leading to their separation.
“I decided to be alone for the peace of mind.people don’t understand my situation,”he adds.
Additionally, societal misconceptions and stigma surrounding mental illness resulted in Odhiambo being labeled as “ex-Mathare”.
He faced discrimination from friends while others taking advantages of his connections.
“People started calling me ex Mathare and saying I am insane adding to the stigma around mental health,”Odhiambo states.
Odhiambo’s experiences led him to recognize the urgent need for awareness and understanding of mental illness in society.
He passionately advocates for early screening tests in schools.
He emphasize the importance of identifying mental illness early on and provide appropriate support.
“I advice the government to conduct screening in schools to identify illness early before they worsen,”he went on stating that,
“if my mother knew about my mental illness and sought medical attention ,maybe I could have better outcome.”
He also appeals to religious communities to distinguish between mental illness and witchcraft.
He encourage individuals to seek medical attention alongside prayers.
“A message to religion:mental illness should not be confused with witchcraft.seek medical attention first and prayers can be complimentary,” he reiterates.
Through media engagement and awareness campaigns, Odhiambo aims to change societal perceptions and promote empathy and acceptance for those with mental health conditions.
“Media should be at the forefront in creating awareness so that people understand what mental illness is and how to cope with it,”he says.
From the difficulties and misunderstandings he faced in his youth to his achievements and advocacy work.
Odhiambo is breaking down barriers, challenging stigma, and paving the way for a more compassionate and inclusive society.
