Safe Space

In this final interview episode of Safe Space, Paulyne Wanyonyi speaks with Tom Osborn, founder of Shamiri, and Dr. Zaccheus Were, a family physician working in Bungoma, about the solutions already being built to address mental health and suicide in Kenya. From policy barriers and stigma to the shortage of psychiatrists and mental health resources, the conversation explores the challenges facing suicide prevention today. But it also focuses on what is possible. Tom shares how Shamiri is training young people to deliver mental health interventions in schools, while Dr. Were explains his holistic approach to patient care, looking at mental health, social context, and family dynamics together. Together, they explore how community-driven care, culturally grounded mental health models, and early intervention could transform how Kenya approaches suicide prevention. This episode brings the interview series to a close by focusing on hope, solutions, and the work already happening on the ground. Thank you for following this series. If these conversations have meant something to you, please share this episode, subscribe to the channel, and let's continue having solution focused conversations. Support & Resources: Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/ External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8 Grounding Exercises Toolkit -  https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/ Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast. Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

How we talk about suicide matters.   In this episode of Safe Space, Paulyne Wanyonyi sits down with marriage and family therapist Dr. Marion Mutwiri to explore how media, headlines, films, songs, and social platforms shape the way people understand suicide.   From sensational news reporting to viral shows and music lyrics, the stories we consume can influence how we think about mental health, risk, and help-seeking. The conversation also examines how suicide was historically criminalised in Kenya and how that shaped the way media covered it.   Dr. Marion explains why responsible reporting matters, why context and compassion are often missing from headlines, and how the media can shift from sensational storytelling to meaningful mental health awareness.   This episode asks an important question: Are the stories we tell about suicide helping people, or harming them?   Pause if you need to and listen with care   Listen with care and pause if you need to.   Support & Resources:   Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/   External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX   Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8   Grounding Exercises Toolkit -  https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/   Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast.   Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

In many African cultures, suicide is rarely spoken about openly. In this episode of Safe Space, we explore how the Bukusu culture in Kenya understands suicide, life, and community responsibility. Robert Mumbwani shares how traditional beliefs shape the way suicide is discussed, why it is often spoken about indirectly, and how families and communities respond when it happens. This conversation offers an important cultural perspective on suicide, stigma, and mental health in Kenya. Listen with care and pause if you need to.   Support & Resources: Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/ External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8 Grounding Exercises Toolkit -  https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/ Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast. Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

In Kenya, religion and culture shape how many of us understand suicide, suffering, and mental health. In this episode of Safe Space, Paulyne Wanyonyi sits down with a Catholic priest and a pastor to explore how these beliefs show up in real conversations. They speak about the sacredness of life, how suicide is viewed in religious spaces, and the role faith plays when people are struggling. They also touch on the gap between what is often taught and what people actually experience, especially when it comes to suffering. The conversation moves into how scripture is sometimes quoted or understood, and how that can shape the way mental health is approached. There’s also a moment of honesty around the pressure placed on spiritual leaders, and what it looks like when they are not okay. This episode opens up a conversation that is often left unspoken.   Support & Resources: Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/ External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX Support & Resources: Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/ External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8 Grounding Exercises Toolkit -  https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/ Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast. Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

Some people never break down in public.  They keep showing up to work, meeting deadlines, caring for others, and doing everything expected of them. On the surface, they seem fine. But internally, they may be struggling with anxiety, burnout, overwhelm, or depression. In this episode of Safe Space, Paulyne Wanyonyi speaks again with Dr. Tima about the idea of being “high-functioning.” Together they explore why this label can be misleading, how distress can be hidden behind productivity, and why many people only receive help once they reach a crisis point.  The conversation looks at how high performance in schools, workplaces, and even religious spaces can sometimes mask emotional suffering. Dr. Tima explains how mental health distress in Kenya often shows up through physical complaints like headaches, stomach pain, fatigue, and sleep problems rather than emotional language. The episode also explores how gender expectations, stigma, and cultural messages about resilience can make it harder for people to express vulnerability.  This conversation invites us to rethink what “coping” really looks like, and how communities can learn to recognise distress even when it isn’t loud or visible. Listen to the full episode of Safe Space to learn how silent struggles show up, why high-functioning individuals are often overlooked, and what we can do to create spaces where people feel safe asking for help.  Wheel of Emotions | Worksheet | Therapist Aid:  https://www.thecoachingtoolscompany.com/wheel-of-life-categories/  The Self-Care Wheel: Wellness Worksheets, Activities & PDF:  https://www.thecoachingtoolscompany.com/wheel-of-life-categories/  Support & Resources:  Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/  External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX  Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8  Grounding Exercises Toolkit - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/  Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727,  Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast.  Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

In many Kenyan homes, conversations about pain and mental health are often silenced. But silence does not protect us, it isolates us. In this episode of Safe Space, host Paulyne Wanyonyi speaks with Professor Lukoye Atwoli, a psychiatrist and mental health expert, about what truly drives suicide.  Together, they unpack suicide as a manifestation of severe psychological distress and explore why it should be understood not as a personal failure, but as a signal that someone is struggling and needs support. The conversation goes deeper into the complex factors that shape suicide risk, including biology, psychology, and social environments.  From early childhood experiences and trauma, to unemployment, violence, and social pressures, the episode examines the wider context that affects mental health in Kenya today. Professor Lukoye also explains why suicide should be seen as a public health issue, how suicidal behaviour can be a form of communication, and why understanding the full picture is essential for prevention and care.  This episode invites us to rethink how we talk about suicide, how we respond to distress, and how communities can play a role in supporting those who are struggling.  Listen to the full conversation and join us in breaking the silence.  Support & Resources: Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/  External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX  Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8  Grounding Exercises Toolkit - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/  Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727,  Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast.  Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

This first interview episode of Safe Space podcast opens our suicide series by addressing what is often spoken about in hushed tones. Hosted by Paulyne Wanyonyi, the conversation features clinical psychologist Dr. Tima Khamis, who brings over two decades of experience working with adults and young people navigating suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and psychological distress. The episode explores how suicide is understood in Kenya, the impact of stigma and language, the difference between suicidal thoughts and suicidal ideation, and why suicide should be treated as a public health issue rather than a moral failure or crime. Dr. Tima also speaks about self-harm as an attempt to manage overwhelming pain, the importance of emotional literacy, and the role of community, culture, faith, and access in shaping how people seek help. This conversation is not about providing solutions. It is about creating understanding, naming what is often avoided, and beginning a more compassionate dialogue around suicide in a Kenyan context. Please listen with care and pause whenever you need to. Support & Resources: Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/ External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8 Grounding Exercises Toolkit -  https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/ Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast. Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

In this episode, Elizabeth shares her experience of living with depression, grief, and bipolar 2 during pregnancy.  Throughout this period, she continued to function outwardly, even as her mental health struggled beneath the surface.  This episode reflects on what is often overlooked in high-functioning individuals, and how therapy became a place to slow down and acknowledge what was really going on.  Please listen with care and pause if you need to.  Support & Resources:  Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/  External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX  Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8  Grounding Exercises Toolkit - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/  Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast.  Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

In this episode, Nigel shares his lived experience of his final years of high school, marked by intense pressure, the disruption of COVID-19, and a growing struggle with mental health. He speaks openly about feeling misunderstood and unsupported, how school began to affect his wellbeing, and how thoughts of suicide entered the picture during this period.  This conversation reflects on the gaps within school systems when it comes to mental health, and the need for better care and understanding.  Please listen with care and pause if you need to.  Support & Resources:  Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/  External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8  Grounding Exercises Toolkit - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/  Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast.  Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

This lived experience explores mental health struggles through the lens of a clinical psychology student.  It speaks about emotional inhibition, identity and body image challenges, studying abroad, and finding ways to cope.  The conversation also touches on suicidal thoughts and the role humour played during difficult moments. Please listen with care and at your own pace.  Support & Resources:  Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/  External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8  Grounding Exercises Toolkit - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/  Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast.  Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

In this episode, the storyteller reflects on the impact of academic pressure and expectations during his high school years.  He shares how this period affected his emotional wellbeing, and the role community played in helping him through it.  He also reflects on how suicide was spoken about then, and why he now believes in the importance of professional support and open conversation.  Support & Resources:  Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/  External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/cQCujGXnvX Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/orJUB1_Pu8  Grounding Exercises Toolkit - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/  Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast.  Write for our Blog - https://zfrmz.com/H03NH23xUPly3ZJsEcVQ

In this episode, Muthoni speaks about losing two close friends to suicide and the impact that  those losses had on her life. She reflects on grief, the signs that only became clear in hindsight, and the emotional weight of living with unanswered questions.                    This episode also explores the role of support, community, and what it means to continue living while with grief. Please listen with care and pause if needed.  

This episode shares John’s lived experience of being diagnosed with cancer and the emotional weight that followed.  He speaks openly about fear, isolation, anger, and the questions that came with his diagnosis.  John also reflects on seeking therapy during this time, and how his experience left him feeling unheard and misunderstood, especially when faith was presented as a solution to pain he was still trying to make sense of.  This conversation is about illness, mental health, and the complexity of seeking support when life feels overwhelming. It is shared with honesty, care, and respect for the reality of carrying this kind of pain. If this topic is heavy for you, please take care and seek support where needed.  Support & Resources:  Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/  External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/-D0hLbwdIk Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/VwYDJcyoaZ  Grounding Exercises Toolkit - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/  Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast.

This short episode sets the stage for the thoughtful and sometimes difficult conversations that will follow. We gently explore what it means to talk about suicide in the Kenyan context, why grounding matters, and how to take care of yourself as you listen. This episode is an invitation to pause, breathe, and enter this series with openness and care.  Follow us on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/theartisticpsychologist  Show notes: Therapy Resource Catalogue - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/therapy-mental-health-resources-by-the-artistic-psychologist/  External Suicide Toolkits - https://tr.ee/CkLZ67uvCc  Seeking Help Toolkit - https://tr.ee/CkLZ67uvCc  Grounding Exercises Toolkit - https://the-artisticpsychologist.com/grounding-exercises-a-quick-guide-for-intense-emotions/ Submit your Mental Health story via a voice note - Whatsapp Us on +254 788 036 727, Your story may be featured on our "In Your Own Words" segment of this podcast.

After a long pause, Safe Space returns.  Paulyne reflects on how the podcast started, why stepping back became necessary, and what it took to return intentionally.  This episode holds space for honesty, an appreciation of growth, and the reality of slowing down when things feel overwhelming.  This is the start of a new chapter.  Subscribe and turn on post notifications so you don’t miss what’s next.    Links: Website: https://tr.ee/LVHJIKWSzB Instagram: https://tr.ee/45FdAgskq1 TikTok: https://tr.ee/BxqG_Msmiq LinkedIn: https://tr.ee/tpePYUz8O9 Youtube: https://tr.ee/hFpDA-yeRB Facebook: https://tr.ee/rLnnPQpiVB    

Three Siblings; Paulyne, Sylvanus and Sophia discuss their shared experience with a toxic person within their lives, how they noticed that this person was toxic to how they managed to detach and move on. Connect with The Artistic Psychologist: https://www.instagram.com/theartisticpsychologist/ https://web.facebook.com/theartisticpsychologist https://the-artisticpsychologist.com

Three Siblings; Paulyne, Sylvanus and Sophia discuss their shared experience with a toxic person within their lives, how they noticed that this person was toxic to how they managed to detach and move on. Connect with The Artistic Psychologist: https://www.instagram.com/theartisticpsychologist/ https://web.facebook.com/theartisticpsychologist https://the-artisticpsychologist.com

In this episode, Sophia and Nawekulo sit down to chat about the initial signs they saw in their loved one's toxic relationship and long term effects of staying in toxic or abusive relationships. Connect with The Artistic Psychologist: https://www.instagram.com/theartisticpsychologist/ https://web.facebook.com/theartisticpsychologist https://the-artisticpsychologist.com

In this episode, we asked Gloria, Sylvanus and Imani to share their stories on Toxic & Abusive relationships, how to identify when you're loved on is in a toxic or abusive relationship and how these experiences left them feeling. Connect with The Artistic Psychologist: https://www.instagram.com/theartisticpsychologist/ https://web.facebook.com/theartisticpsychologist https://the-artisticpsychologist.com

In this episode I define what stalking is and break down different scenarios within which stalking happens and the effects it has with Lucy and Nicoleta. Remember to be mindful when sharing this content. We also want to remind you that it is ok to pause or stop when taking in any of the content we will release if it is too heavy for you. Connect with The Artistic Psychologist: https://www.instagram.com/theartisticpsychologist/ https://web.facebook.com/theartisticpsychologist