Breaking the Silence: Revolutionizing Mental Health Support for Women and Children in Uganda
By Michael Gifales
In Uganda, a silent crisis lurks beneath the surface, impacting the mental health of women and children in profound ways. The statistics paint a stark picture: 5.1% of females and 3.6% of males grapple with mental health disorders, with depression affecting 22.2% and anxiety gripping 20.2% of the population. Shockingly, 66% of adolescents exhibit signs of poor well-being and potential depression, while 41% have endured multiple childhood traumas. Among young women in urban areas like Kampala, 23.3% face high levels of stress, and an alarming 32.2% battle persistent depression (Asiimwe, Nuwagaba-K b, Dwanyen, Kasujja 2023, Wipfli, Guy, Kim, Tumuhimbise, Odur 2023, NIH).
Despite these pressing needs, mental health services in Uganda remain limited and underfunded. Only 9.8% of the country’s gross domestic product is allocated to health, with mental health receiving a meager share of this budget.
This scarcity translates to inadequate access to care, particularly in rural regions. Cultural factors further compound the issue, as stigma and traditional beliefs often deter individuals from seeking professional help in favor of spiritual remedies (Asiimwe, Nuwagaba-K b, Dwanyen, Kasujja 2023).
The path to addressing mental health challenges in Uganda demands a comprehensive strategy. Increasing funding for mental health services, integrating mental health care into primary healthcare systems, and launching community-based interventions are crucial steps. Public awareness campaigns, especially in rural areas, can combat stigma and promote a culture of seeking professional support.
Organizations like PLATFORM for the NEEDY (PLANE) are at the forefront of change, utilizing radio talk shows, drama performances, and community dialogues to destigmatize mental health, educate communities, and offer vital support systems.
By uniting governmental initiatives with NGO-driven interventions, Uganda can forge a more accessible and impactful mental health support system for its most vulnerable populations.
Let us break the silence, champion mental wellness, and pave the way for a brighter future where no woman or child in Uganda suffers in silence.
