The National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) has launched a series of mental health awareness sessions for its staff, aiming to promote wellbeing and address the increasing mental health challenges among Ugandan youth.
Speaking at the inaugural session, NSPC Commissioner Hellen Seku urged families across the country to stop attributing children’s struggles to witchcraft, emphasizing that mental health is a serious issue requiring attention and support.
“Families should stop thinking that when their children face challenges, it is because they have been bewitched. Many of our youth are affected by mental health conditions and as a nation we must address this issue seriously,” Ms. Seku said.
She commended NSPC staff for participating in the awareness session, highlighting that such initiatives are critical for fostering supportive workplaces.
“I thank my staff for participating in this activity today. Let this be a lesson to other organizations to encourage their staff to take part in mental health lessons and discussions. It is the only way we can understand the wellbeing of those we lead and what they are going through,” she added.
Mental health experts noted that the initiative comes at a time when disorders among youth are becoming increasingly common. Florence Namyaalo explained that globally, between 15 and 20 percent of young people experience mental health challenges.
“In Uganda, the situation is particularly worrying,” she said. A recent Ministry of Health report indicates that roughly 191,000 youth in the Buganda sub-region are living with mental health conditions, with urban areas such as Kampala recording higher numbers than other parts of the country.
Health professionals attribute the rise in mental health issues to factors including unemployment, family conflicts, and relationship challenges. Many young people resort to alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes, and khat as coping mechanisms.
“Everyone is at risk, and it is okay not to be okay,” Ms. Namyaalo said, urging youth to seek support and avoid harmful habits.
Experts recommend simple steps to protect mental wellbeing, including adequate sleep, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and seeking support from family, friends, or community groups.
She also encouraged communities, institutions, and organizations to identify individuals who may be struggling and to help them prioritize their mental health.
“When the people around us are healthy and supported, we all live better lives,” Ms. Namyaalo concluded.
