A Conversation with Counselling Psychologist Catherine Njeri.
When a child struggles to sit still, finish homework, or pay attention in class, many parents immediately wonder whether they are simply being mischievous. Yet, for some families, the explanation goes deeper. Conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) fall under what specialists call neurodiversity disorders, and the big question parents often ask is whether they are inherited.
According to counselling psychologist Catherine Njeri, genetics can play a part, but they are not the whole story. “You may notice ADHD running in families, but environment and early experiences also influence how it shows up,” she explains. A child may inherit a predisposition, but the extent of their challenges often depends on factors like parenting approaches, school environment, and emotional support.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects concentration, impulse control, and planning.
Symptoms typically appear around age four but become more noticeable in school, where teachers may observe a child who cannot sit still, constantly interrupts, or struggles to stay on task. Although ADHD is most often identified in childhood, it can continue into adulthood, presenting as forgetfulness, disorganisation, and difficulty maintaining stable jobs or relationships.
It is important to distinguish ADHD from autism, as the two are sometimes confused. Children with autism may have trouble with speech, emotional expression, and social interaction but can sustain focus on a single task for long periods. Children with ADHD, on the other hand, usually express themselves and show emotion, but their attention shifts rapidly from one activity to another.
In children, hyperactivity is the hallmark; constant movement, excessive talking, and acting without considering consequences. In adults, hyperactivity often reduces, but inattentiveness becomes more dominant, leaving them absent-minded and easily distracted.
School and Social Life
ADHD does not mean a child is less intelligent. Many children with the condition are bright, but their inability to sustain attention holds them back. Sadly, teachers may mistake this for laziness, which damages self-esteem and motivation. Social life can be equally challenging. Friendships may be short-lived, affected by impulsivity or emotional unpredictability. Over time, this isolation may lead to anxiety or depression.
Although ADHD cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively with the right support. Psychiatrists may prescribe medication to regulate dopamine, the brain chemical linked to focus and motivation. Behavioural therapy helps children and adults develop coping strategies and structure, while lifestyle practices such as routines, meditation, and breathing exercises strengthen focus.
Above all, Catherine stresses the importance of empathy. “Children with ADHD are not lazy,” she says. With early diagnosis, patience, and consistent support, they can thrive academically, socially, and later in their professional lives.
A Message to Parents
Neurodiversity disorders may have genetic links, but they do not define a child’s potential. What matters most is awareness, early intervention, and creating environments where children feel understood rather than judged. With the right guidance, ADHD does not have to be a limitation, it can be one part of a child’s journey toward resilience and success.
To hear more from Catherine Njeri on ADHD and her advice to parents, watch the full interview on our YouTube channel.
Kenyans are mourning the loss of Blessed Claire Muthoni, a brave 12-year-old girl from Kihuri in Othaya, Nyeri County, who passed away while undergoing specialised cancer treatment in New Delhi. Claire had been fighting stage 4 cancer for over three years.
The aggressive disease took a heavy toll on her young body, eventually leading to the amputation of one of her legs. Despite the pain and the many challenges she faced, Claire remained hopeful and courageous throughout her journey, inspiring many who followed her story.
On January 19, 2026, she travelled to India with her mother in search of advanced treatment aimed at saving her remaining leg and managing the cancer that had spread to her lungs. The journey was filled with hope, supported by Kenyans from all walks of life who contributed towards her treatment and kept her in their prayers.
A brave fight
While in India, Claire underwent several chemotherapy sessions. Unfortunately, her condition worsened after developing complications, leading to her admission to the Intensive Care Unit. She passed away in hospital last week, leaving behind a grieving family and a nation that had stood with her.
On Monday, March 30, 2026, her remains arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The atmosphere at the airport was filled with grief as family members, friends and well-wishers gathered to receive her. Her mother returned home alone, carrying a loss no parent should have to endure.
Claire will be laid to rest in her home area of Othaya in the coming days, as her family begins the difficult process of saying their final goodbyes.
Her story touched thousands across the country, many of whom followed her journey through updates and fundraising efforts. She became a symbol of strength and resilience, and her passing has deeply affected those who had hoped to see her recover.
Beyond the grief, her story has once again brought attention to the challenges families face when dealing with childhood cancer in Kenya. The high cost of specialised treatment, limited access to advanced care locally, and the emotional and financial strain on families often force many to seek treatment abroad.
Kenyans are mourning the loss of Blessed Claire Muthoni, a brave 12-year-old girl from Kihuri in Othaya, Nyeri County, who passed away while undergoing specialised cancer treatment in New Delhi. Claire had been fighting stage 4 cancer for over three years.
The aggressive disease took a heavy toll on her young body, eventually leading to the amputation of one of her legs. Despite the pain and the many challenges she faced, Claire remained hopeful and courageous throughout her journey, inspiring many who followed her story.
On January 19, 2026, she travelled to India with her mother in search of advanced treatment aimed at saving her remaining leg and managing the cancer that had spread to her lungs. The journey was filled with hope, supported by Kenyans from all walks of life who contributed towards her treatment and kept her in their prayers.
A brave fight
While in India, Claire underwent several chemotherapy sessions. Unfortunately, her condition worsened after developing complications, leading to her admission to the Intensive Care Unit. She passed away in hospital last week, leaving behind a grieving family and a nation that had stood with her.
On Monday, March 30, 2026, her remains arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The atmosphere at the airport was filled with grief as family members, friends and well-wishers gathered to receive her. Her mother returned home alone, carrying a loss no parent should have to endure.
Claire will be laid to rest in her home area of Othaya in the coming days, as her family begins the difficult process of saying their final goodbyes.
Her story touched thousands across the country, many of whom followed her journey through updates and fundraising efforts. She became a symbol of strength and resilience, and her passing has deeply affected those who had hoped to see her recover.
Beyond the grief, her story has once again brought attention to the challenges families face when dealing with childhood cancer in Kenya. The high cost of specialised treatment, limited access to advanced care locally, and the emotional and financial strain on families often force many to seek treatment abroad.
Traders at Nairobi’s bustling Gikomba Market are counting heavy losses after a section of the popular shoe market (mitumba shoe section) was demolished overnight by Nairobi City County enforcement teams. The operation took place in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Videos and photos circulating on social media show destroyed merchandise and devastated traders who arrived at the market this morning to find their businesses in ruins. According to reports, the county government carried out the demolition after an eviction notice lapsed. This happened even though the High Court (Environment and Land Court) had earlier issued and extended conservatory orders in March 2026, halting mass demolitions and evictions at Gikomba and surrounding areas along the Nairobi River.
Repeated demolitions
Demolitions at Gikomba are not new. As far back as 1977, the original market was brought down by the government to pave the way for light industries. In recent years, attention has shifted to the riparian land along the Nairobi River, with authorities proposing to expand the buffer zone from 30 metres to 50 metres in a bid to control flooding.
Many traders have raised concerns over what they describe as poor consultation, shifting relocation plans and the lack of a clear and secure alternative site. There are also growing fears that the process could open the door to land grabbing and cartel involvement.
Impact
For most traders at Gikomba, the market is more than just a place of business. It is their only source of livelihood. Repeated fires and demolitions have created a cycle of uncertainty, financial strain and constant rebuilding. Many small business owners say they struggle to recover after each loss, only to face another setback months later.
Calls for improved fire safety measures, fair relocation plans and meaningful engagement with authorities continue to grow louder. Without long term and sustainable solutions, Gikomba traders will continue to bear the high cost of operating in one of Nairobi’s busiest yet most vulnerable markets.
For more, click HERE to join our WhatsApp channel!
Fashion9 years ago