Introduction
At Mental Health Uganda (MHU), we are dedicated to promoting mental well-being among students through our Youth Mental Health Project. Funded by Operation Days Work (ODW) and in partnership with SOS Children’s Villages Uganda, this initiative includes the pivotal roles of Mentor Champions and Mental Health Champions. These individuals are at the forefront of creating supportive environments in schools and communities.
The Need for Mental Health and Mentor Champions
Mental health challenges among youth in Uganda are significant and often overlooked. Our baseline study in August 2022 revealed that 64.5% of students aged 13-19 experienced mental health issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the urgent need for support, stigma and limited resources often prevent students from seeking help.
Who Are Mental Health and Mentor Champions?
Mental Health Champions are students trained to provide peer support and Psychological First Aid (PFA) within their schools. Mentor Champions are community members with lived experience of mental health issues who mentor Mental Health Champions and support referrals to professional services.
Training and Roles
Mental Health Champions:
- 110 trained across 8 schools in Wakiso and Gulu.
- Provided Psychological First Aid (PFA) to 1,262 students/peers.
- Reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health among peers.
Mentor Champions:
- 24 trained from communities in the project locations; all with lived experience of mental health problems.
- Provide mentorship to Mental Health Champions and attend to/support referrals.
- Delivered PFA to 519 community members and referred 211 individuals for professional counseling.
The Referral Process
To ensure effective referrals and access to professional support, several key steps have been implemented:
- Mapping Mental Health Service Providers: Identifying local mental health service providers to facilitate effective referrals.
- Developing a Simplified Inventory: Creating a simplified inventory of mental health resources, prominently displayed in key locations.
- Establishing Key Linkages: Connecting with key actors, including the MHU toll-free helpline for professional tele-therapy.
Impact on the School and Community
The integration of Mental Health and Mentor Champions in schools has led to significant positive outcomes:
- Increased Access to Support: With 1,262 students receiving PFA from Mental Health Champions, the project has greatly expanded access to immediate mental health support.
- Improved Referral Efficiency: The established referral process has streamlined access to professional counseling, with 211 individuals successfully referred for further care.
- Enhanced Community Support: Mentor Champions have strengthened community connections by promoting open conversations about mental health and providing vital support to those in need.
Success Stories
Several success stories highlight the impact of both Mental Health and Mentor Champions:
- Positive Changes in Help-Seeking Behavior: Schools with Mental Health and Mentor Champions have reported increased willingness among students to seek help, reflecting a shift towards greater acceptance and understanding of mental health issues.
- Stronger Community Ties: Mentor Champions have enhanced community connections by promoting open conversations about mental health and providing vital support to those in need.
- Enhanced Mental Well-being: Students and community members who have received support from Mental Health and Mentor Champions have shown improved mental well-being and greater resilience in coping with challenges.
Conclusion
The roles of Mental Health and Mentor Champions are a testament to Mental Health Uganda’s commitment to supporting youth mental health. Through their training and dedication, they play a crucial part in creating supportive and inclusive environments for students. With continued support from Operation Days Work (ODW) and our partnership with SOS Children’s Villages Uganda, we are making significant strides in addressing mental health challenges and promoting well-being in our communities.
Join Us in Making a Difference
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Our toll-free counseling line is available at 0800 21 21 21, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Together, we can foster a culture of support and understanding. #ConversationsChangeLives