DCI Takes on Suicide and Childhood Trauma in Mental Health Push

Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is clear that mental health awareness, early intervention, and access to psychosocial support are essential components of law enforcement officers’ overall well-being.

On World Health day observed annually on October 7, DCI, through its Staff Clinic’s Counselling Unit, jointly conducted a two-day mental health sensitisation programme at the National Forensic Laboratory with the Nairobi City County Department of Health, Roysambu Sub-County.

Move aimed at raising awareness among officers on suicide prevention, childhood trauma, and the importance of mental well-being, in line with this year’s “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change” theme.

Law enforcement officers were sensitised on common signs of childhood trauma, including anxiety, nightmares, depression, low self-esteem, and difficulty concentrating.

DCI says sessions also explored how unresolved trauma can affect adulthood, contributing to emotional distress, relationship difficulties, fear of abandonment, and challenges in setting healthy boundaries

“The programme emphasised the importance of early intervention, professional counselling, supportive relationships, and creating a stigma-free environment where officers can seek mental health support,” it explains.

The programme also reinforced the importance of creating a supportive environment in which officers feel safe to speak about their mental health challenges and seek assistance without fear of stigma or judgement.