Former Citizen TV Journalist Kimani Mbugua Receives Care After 4-Year Mental Health Struggle

Kimani Mbugua, a 28-year-old former Kenyan media personality who worked as a journalist at Citizen TV, has been struggling with severe mental health issues for the past four years. His father recently shared an update on Kimani's condition, revealing that he is currently residing in a secure apartment in Makongeni Phase 10, Thika, where he is closely monitored by family and neighbors to ensure his safety and prevent self-harm.

Why this matters: Mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of their profession or background, and it is essential to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health issues. By sharing Kimani's story, we can encourage others to seek help and support those who are struggling withmental health problems.

Kimani's mental health began deteriorating in February 2020, marked by concerning incidents such as unexpected confessions of substance use during a board meeting at his father's consulting firm. "All went well until February 2020... He came and in the middle of the meeting, he stood up and said, 'Dad, for four days, I haven't eaten.' I was shocked because we are SDAs. It gave me a red flag," Kimani's father recounted. Investigations revealed that Kimani had been exposed to harmful substances, including marijuana, at a birthday party, which exacerbated his condition.

Prior to his mental health struggles, Kimani had a promising career in journalism. He had earned recognition from influential figures in the media industry, such as Churchill and Larry Madowo. Kimani's father fondly recalls his son's academic and professional successes, including securing an A in school and becoming the MD of their consultancy company. However, the turning point came in February 2020 when Kimani's erratic behavior led to his hospitalization, where he was restrained and disoriented.

Kimani experienced relapses and further exposure to harmful substances in the following months. In one incident, he labeled his father as 'wanted' on social media, accusing him of stealing and selling his car. Kimani's father explained that this occurred after another distressing episode, and Kimani himself had suggested selling his car to cover his medical expenses, underscoring the family's dedication to his recovery.

Currently, Kimani is receiving care in his Thika apartment, with safety measures in place to prevent self-harm. His father emphasized the family's commitment to his well-being, stating, "At the moment, he's still out of balance. I had to make sure he's close to family members. The cousins are all located in the same facility. And even the neighbors there are taking care of him." The apartment has been chosen to keep Kimani close to family members who can provide supervision and support.

Kimani Mbugua's four-year mental health struggle serves as a reminder of the importance of support and understanding for those facing such challenges. The former Citizen TV journalist, once recognized for his talent and potential, now relies on the unwavering dedication of his family as he navigates the path to recovery. As Kimani continues to receive care in the secure environment of his Thika apartment, his story sheds light on the complex nature of mental health issues and the crucial role of family support in the journey towards healing.

Key Takeaways

• Kimani Mbugua, 28, former Kenyan media personality, struggles with severe mental health issues for 4 years.
• His mental health began deteriorating in 2020 after being exposed to harmful substances at a party.
• Kimani is currently residing in a secure apartment in Thika, closely monitored by family and neighbors.
• His family is committed to his recovery, providing supervision and support in his journey to healing.
• Kimani's story highlights the importance of support and understanding for those facing mental health challenges.