By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
KABALE
In a heartfelt campaign to spotlight mental health challenges among students and educators, LEM Mindfulness concluded its regional outreach tour across Western Uganda, culminating in Kabale at Bishop Robert Gay SS and Kabale University. The initiative, which began on September 22nd, reached seven schools across Mpiji, Mbarara, Mtooma, Rukungiri, and Kabale, aiming to raise awareness and advocate for increased mental health support.
According to Martin Bakundana, one of the lead organizers and Executive Director at LEM mindfulness emphasized the gravity of the crisis, revealing that 23% of mental health cases stem from depression and 21% from anxiety figures that surpass deaths from HIV, which claims 1.7 million lives annually, compared to 14 million Ugandans living with mental illness. “Mental health is silently killing our youth,” Bakundana warned, noting that 67% of suicide cases involve males who often suppress their struggles.
Despite Uganda’s 72.136 trillion shilling national budget, only 5% was allocated to the Ministry of Health, with a mere 1% directed toward mental health most of which goes to Butabika National Psychiatry Hospital. Bakundana expressed optimism that Parliament is warming up to the idea of increased funding, stating, “We are trying to engage Parliament and I’m happy they’ve already bought the idea.”
During a guest lecture at Kabale University, social work students were urged to adopt practical survival strategies. Carol Bavuga a mentor at LEM mindfulness advised students to live within their means, start small businesses using pocket money, and avoid peer pressure. “Don’t feel bad when you see a colleague buying chips and chicken you never know the source of their money,” she cautioned.
Adella Nomugisha also a mentor at LEM Mindfulness tipped students on how to cope up with stress and anxiety. She noted she was at one point an addict who thought alcohol and sleeping pills would help but was later counselled and overcame the challenges.
“I used to go to churches to listen to people’s testimonies and eventually I accepted that it’s not only me with problems” said Nomugisha.
Anna Uwimaana, a lecturer in the Faculty of Humanities, delivered a powerful message: “If you show a false person to who you are, you become a false person.” Her words resonated with students grappling with identity and societal expectations.
Abeine Charles, Head Teacher of Bishop Robert Gay SS, encouraged students to apply what they learnt, believing it could transform their character and ease their future roles as educators.
He acknowledged that the students face a lot of challenges and with such sessions they hope it would help survive in the harsh environment.
Despite the tour’s success, Bakundana acknowledged challenges, including resistance from some schools and a widespread lack of mental health awareness. He called on the government to fund such initiatives, stressing that without intervention, mental health issues and suicide rates will continue to rise.
The LEM Mindfulness tour may have ended, but its message is clear: Uganda’s youth need mental health support now more than ever.
