Silas Kiriinya

  Healing Childhood Inner Wounds (Childhood adversity) By Consultant Psychologist Silas Kiriinya Life is a journey shaped significantly by our early experiences. Our childhood serves as the foundation upon which we build our identity, relationships, beliefs, and overall well-being. However, for many, this foundation is marked by adversity—neglect, abuse, trauma, parental dysfunction, or exposure to conflict. While some may believe that childhood adversities should be left in the past, research and clinical experience suggest otherwise. If one desires to live healthily in all aspects—mentally, emotionally, physically, relationally, and spiritually—it is crucial to professionally process unresolved childhood adversity. Understanding Childhood Adversity and Its Long-Term Impact Childhood adversity encompasses a wide range of negative experiences, including emotional neglect, physical or sexual abuse, exposure to domestic violence, parental substance abuse, or growing up in an u...

 How Mobile Loan Collection Tactics Are Destroying Mental Health in Kenya By Silas Kiriinya, Psychologist Imagine waking up to dozens of missed calls from unknown numbers, your WhatsApp flooded with messages threatening to expose you as a defaulter, and your friends calling to ask why a loan app is demanding repayment on your behalf. This is the harsh reality for many Kenyans trapped in the unforgiving cycle of mobile loan debts. Over the last few years, mobile loan apps have transformed Kenya's financial landscape, offering quick cash at the tap of a button. But behind the convenience lies a dark side—aggressive collection tactics that are pushing borrowers to the edge. Anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and even tragic cases of suicide have become alarmingly common among those struggling with debt. As a psychologist, I have seen firsthand the mental turmoil these tactics inflict. Let’s explore how mobile loan debt is silently crippling mental health and, more importantly, ho...

  The Aftermath of Valentine’s Day unpacking emotions, thoughts, and relationships   V alentine’s Day is often portrayed as a day of love, romance, and connection. However, the day’s aftermath—whether for couples, singles, or those navigating complex relational dynamics—can reveal much about our emotions, thoughts, and relationships. Here's an exposé on the interior workings that follow this highly charged day.   1. The Emotional Aftermath a) The Highs   For many, Valentine’s Day serves as a culmination of anticipation and effort. When expectations are met or exceeded, the emotional residue is one of satisfaction, joy, and a deeper bond. These individuals may bask in the afterglow of meaningful gestures, heartfelt words, or shared intimacy.   b) The Lows   On the flip side, unmet expectations can lead to disappointment, resentment, or self-doubt. Those who felt their gestures weren’t reciprocated might harbor feelings of rejection or inadequ...

  Making Valentine’s Day Meaningful as a Religious Consecrated Person Valentine’s Day often evokes images of romance, roses, and candlelit dinners—a day typically associated with couples and romantic love. Yet, for consecrated religious—priests, nuns, and brothers—this day offers a profound opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the love of God, which transcends all human affections. Valentine’s Day can be reimagined as a day of deep spiritual renewal and a reminder of one’s vocation to love in its purest, most self-giving form. 1. Celebrate the Greatest Love The heart of Valentine’s Day lies in love, and as consecrated individuals, you are uniquely called to reflect and embody God’s unconditional love. Spend the day reflecting on the words of St. John: “God is love” (1 John 4:8). Meditate on how your vocation is a response to the divine call to share that love with the world. Consider celebrating a Holy Hour, focusing on Jesus as the ultimate Bridegroom who draws all souls to...

                      VALENTINES LIKE NONE OTHER V alentine’s Day is a celebration that resonates with love, affection, and meaningful connections. Rooted in the legend of St. Valentine, who defied societal norms to support love and marriage, February 14 has evolved over the centuries into a day of both personal and commercial significance. However, beyond the romantic connotations, Valentine’s Day offers a broader canvas to reflect on the nature of love, its benefits, challenges, and how we can engage with this celebration productively. The Meaning of Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day symbolizes the universal need for love and connection. While popularly associated with romantic relationships, the day invites us to celebrate love in all its forms – familial, platonic, and even self-love. At its core, Valentine’s Day is a reminder to value the bonds that enrich our lives, whether it’s the love shared between partners, the unconditi...

  The Neurological and Psychological Relationship Between Happiness and Brain Chemicals: Dopamine and Serotonin Happiness, a state of well-being characterized by positive emotions and life satisfaction, is deeply rooted in the interplay of neurochemicals within the brain. Two of the most significant contributors to this state are dopamine and serotonin—neurotransmitters that influence mood, motivation, and emotional well-being. Understanding their roles provides insight into how happiness is generated, maintained, and sometimes derailed, particularly during the holiday season when stress and indulgence are heightened. The Role of Dopamine in Happiness Dopamine is often referred to as the "reward chemical" because it reinforces behaviors associated with pleasure and motivation. It is released during activities like eating, socializing, and accomplishing goals, creating a sense of euphoria and satisfaction. Mechanism 1. Reward System Activation: Dopamine is central to the brain...