BY JOACKIM KULE
At least 22.9% of the adolescents and children in Uganda are affected by some forms of mental health disorders.
In Uganda, mental health issues among adolescents are a significant concern.
A report made public by Medicins Sans Frontiers (MSF) indicates that the country is also ranking the top among other African countries in the prevalence of depression (hopelessness) and anxiety, affecting 4.6% of the population.
During the World Mental Health Day Celebrations in Kasese today morning, Medicins Sans Frontiers also reported that the adolescents in the district were facing similar challenges of mental health issues resulting from socio-economic factors and limited access to mental health services.
The day was celebrated under the theme, “It is time to prioritize mental health in adolescents.”
Mr. Mancmog Chakma, the Project Coordinator for the Medicins Sans Frontiers told the press that their recent study mirrored that 30% of the adolescents in Kasese are experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety, a reason why they opted for raising awareness to the people especially learners across the district.
The Kasese District Senior Probation and Welfare Officer, Mr. Faisal Bagumira Kirarira, told the gathering that suicidal cases being registered in the district result from mental health related issues.
He mentioned some sub-county with high suicidal cases including Munkunyu, Maliba, Bwesumbu, Nyamwamba Division and Kinyamaseke Town Council.
The Kasese Municipal Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Joy Muhindo attributed the rate of mental health, depression and anxiety to abuse of substances; something that she said has also led to a surge in the number of teenage pregnancies.
SP Luke Mbusa, the Rwenzori East Regional Community Liaisons Officer told the students to embrace the idea of sharing their problems with older persons and police in an attempt to reduce on the rate at which suicidal crimes were being committed.
Mr. Emmy Mwesige Kayiri, the Kasese Municipal Education Officer observed need for bringing on board all stakeholders to help in sensitizing the masses about the possible causes of mental health.
ENDS