Mental Wellness Challenges among Women with Physical Disabilities in Kenya

This study aimed to examine the mental wellness experiences of women with physical disabilities in Kenya, guided by the hypothesis that these women encounter multifaceted mental health challenges. Utilizing a survey research design, data was collected via questionnaires from a convenience sample of 41 women with physical disabilities, recruited across 13 counties during a community program enrolment initiative. Descriptive statistics revealed a mean participant age of 33.98 years (SD = 11.97). Employment status was distributed as follows: 17.1% employed, 26.8% self-employed, and 56.1% unemployed. Mobility dependence on wheelchairs was reported by 63.4% of participants, while 85.4% relied on other people for household activities. Thematic analysis of mental wellness sentiments identified 48 theme entries, with prevalent issues including mental overload (71%), stress linked to financial dependency (85.4%), burnout and fatigue (54%), anxiety and uncertainty (42%), loneliness and isolation (54%), low self-esteem (25%), and feelings of discrimination (19%). Adoption of coping strategies for mental wellness was noted in 23% of entries. These findings corroborate the Social Model of Disability and Intersectionality Theory, particularly through the interconnected concepts of ableism and social exclusion. The study concludes that mental wellness challenges among women with physical disabilities in Kenya extend beyond individual impairments, being profoundly influenced by socioeconomic disparities and gendered inequalities.