In a landmark press conference held on June 14, 2024, Mental Health Uganda shed light on the dire state of mental health in the nation. The event served as a clarion call to action, drawing attention to the systemic issues that exacerbate the mental health crisis. Key speakers highlighted the pervasive stigma and discrimination faced by those with mental health conditions, emphasizing the urgent need for societal change.
The conference underscored the prevalence of exploitation, violence, and abuse against individuals with mental health issues. It brought to light the disturbing practices of beatings, cutting, chaining, and seclusion that occur both in conventional and non-conventional settings. The absence of community-based services was identified as a critical gap, leading to forced treatments and inadequate care.
Experts at the conference presented compelling data from WHO research, illustrating the positive impact of decriminalizing suicide on reducing suicide rates. They called upon Uganda to follow suit, advocating for policy changes that would destigmatize mental health issues and promote accessible care.
Mental Health Uganda’s representatives reiterated their commitment to providing support through their toll-free helpline and emphasized the effectiveness of talk therapy. They also outlined specific recommendations for integrating mental health care into formal institutions and recognizing the vital role of families in providing support.
The press conference was a pivotal moment in Uganda’s mental health advocacy, marking a step forward in the journey towards a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Mental health, often shrouded in silence, has surged to the forefront of national concern in Uganda. The plight of those grappling with mental health conditions is a testament to a society’s compassion and progress. In Uganda, however, these individuals confront a harrowing reality marked by stigma, discrimination, and exclusion. The societal response has been marred by exploitation and violence, with reports of beatings and cutting in non-conventional settings. The absence of adequate community-based services has led to forced treatments and confinement at home, devoid of necessary care.
The World Health Organization’s recent research presents a compelling case for policy reform. Nations like Ghana, India, and Pakistan have witnessed a decline in suicide rates following the decriminalization of suicide. Conversely, in countries where suicide remains a criminal offense, including Uganda, the numbers tell a distressing tale of escalating deaths by suicide . The COVID-19 pandemic has served as a stark reminder that mental health care must pivot from institutional confines to the heart of community discourse.
Mental Health Uganda emerges as a vanguard in this crisis, advocating for the power of voice and dialogue. Through their toll-free helpline, they have thwarted numerous instances of suicide ideation. An impressive 64% of callers battling mental health issues have found solace and management through talk therapy.
The call for action is clear and urgent:
- Uganda must progress towards decriminalizing suicide to ensure unimpeded access to mental health care.
- Institutions such as workplaces, educational establishments, and places of worship must swiftly incorporate mental health care services, providing reasonable accommodations for those in need.
- The integral role of families in caregiving must be acknowledged and supported.
Let us extend our empathy to those enduring mental health struggles. Let our actions signify our commitment to inclusivity and understanding.
For confidential professional counseling, reach out to Mental Health Uganda at 0800 212121 (available Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm)
Let us unite in addressing the mental health emergency that shadows our nation. It is time to lift the veil of stigma and embrace open conversations about mental well-being. Remember, it is perfectly okay not to be okay.
You can download the original press release file here
PRESS RELEASE -Mental Health status in Uganda June 14th 2024
or watch it on YouTube here