Mental Health Concept Note

Background of the Project:

Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting how individuals think, feel, and act. It plays an important role in overall health and influencing how people handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Although it is increasingly recognized as integral to a person’s quality of life, mental health remains an area of stigmatization and neglect in many regions, including Uganda.

Globally, around 1 in 4 people will experience mental health issues at some point in their lives, with depression and anxiety being among the most common disorders. Uganda mirrors these global trends, with mental health issues becoming an increasing concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 16% of Uganda’s population faces mental health challenges, with youth and adolescents being particularly vulnerable. The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) also highlights a troubling rise in mental health conditions among school-aged children, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Contributing factors include academic pressure, family challenges, social media influence, and the lack of awareness about mental health issues.

In the Kampala Metropolitan Area, which encompasses Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, and Mpigi districts, the mental health situation is becoming more critical. Kampala, as the capital city, has a higher concentration of youth and adolescents, and mental health challenges are often more pronounced. In districts like Wakiso and Mukono, rapid urbanization and population growth have led to a range of social issues, including rising mental health concerns among students. School-going children in the region face a variety of stressors such as bullying, academic pressure, family breakdowns, substance abuse, and peer influence, all of which contribute to the worsening of mental health conditions. Studies show that 1 in 5 adolescents in urban areas experience symptoms of mental health disorders.

Several challenges contribute to the mental health crisis in Uganda, particularly among students. One major issue is the stigma surrounding mental health. Many people still view mental health challenges as a sign of weakness or a result of a lack of faith, which discourages young people from seeking help. Additionally, there is a severe shortage of trained mental health professionals, particularly in rural and less accessible areas, which makes it difficult for individuals to access proper mental health care. Awareness about mental health issues is still limited, and most schools lack the necessary resources, such as trained counselors, to adequately address mental health challenges. Cultural beliefs also play a significant role in dismissing mental health conditions, as many communities prefer to rely on traditional healers rather than seeking professional care.

Despite these challenges, there have been efforts to address mental health issues in Uganda. The Ministry of Health has implemented initiatives such as the National Mental Health Policy and the

establishment of mental health services at district and regional referral hospitals. Also, some schools have begun to integrate mental health education into their curricula, though these efforts remain limited. Several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and youth-focused groups have conducted small-scale mental health awareness campaigns, but these interventions have not yet reached the broader population. This highlights the urgent need for more widespread initiatives to improve mental health awareness, particularly in schools.

It’s against this backdrop that Saint Mental Health Resettlement Initiative, a psychosocial support organization was formed and we are starting a project to tackle mental health in secondary schools in Uganda to address the increasing mental health challenges faced by students in the Kampala Metropolitan area which is Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono and Mpigi. The campaign aims to educate students and teachers about the importance of mental health, the signs of mental health issues, and where to seek help. It seeks to promote a better understanding of mental health, reduce stigma, and provide information on available mental health resources. The project will equip students with coping mechanisms to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional difficulties, and encourage them to seek help when needed. It will also provide training for teachers and school staff to help them identify early signs of mental health issues in students and offer initial support. The campaign will also involve parents and local communities to create a supportive environment for addressing mental health issues.

The campaign will take place in 100 different secondary schools in each of the districts of Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, and Mpigi. These schools will receive training materials, awareness posters, and workshops facilitated by mental health professionals. By directly engaging students, teachers, and parents, the campaign aims to improve a culture of open dialogue around mental health, reduce stigma, and ensure that mental health care becomes a mainstream aspect of the school system. Through this initiative, the campaign aims to reduce mental health challenges among students, empower them with the tools to manage their mental well-being, and contribute to improving mental health awareness and services in Uganda’s education system.

Objectives of the Project

●​ To increase awareness and understanding of mental health among students, teachers and the community at large emphasizing its importance in overall well-being and breaking down the stigma associated with mental health issues.

●​ To help participants recognize the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and stress, ensuring that individuals are better equipped to identify mental health concerns in themselves and others.

●​ To inform students and teachers about the available mental health resources and services within their communities, including counseling services, helplines, and local mental health professionals, to ensure that help is accessible when needed.

●​ To offer students and teachers effective coping mechanisms for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, promoting mental resilience and emotional well-being within the school environment.

Methodology

The project will begin with a baseline survey to identify mental health challenges and the extent of mental health in secondary schools in Uganda. Based on the results, targeted materials and workshops will be developed for students, teachers, and parents. The initiative will include peer counseling, teacher training, and community involvement. Monitoring will assess impact through surveys, followed by follow-up activities for long-term support. A final report will guide future efforts, ensuring the campaign is effective and sustainable.

Expected Outputs

●​ Increased awareness and understanding of mental health issues among students, teachers, and parents, leading to reduced stigma and improved attitudes towards mental health.

●​ Enhanced capacity of teachers and students to recognize signs of mental health challenges and effectively manage stress and emotional difficulties.

●​ Improved access to mental health resources and support services within schools and local communities, fostering a culture of care and open dialogue.

Expected Outcomes

✔​ Students and teachers are more likely to seek help and utilize available mental health resources, leading to better overall well-being.

✔​ Increased openness and acceptance of mental health issues within schools and communities, leading to a more supportive environment.

✔​ Students and teachers demonstrate improved resilience and coping strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and emotional difficulties.

Contributions to wider sector goals

A critical element of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is the commitment to “leave no one behind” especially those in vulnerable situations.