I'm a diaspora ugandan clinician qualified and worked in NHS for 21 years. My team and I are strongly dedicated to addressing the rising mental health challenges in uganda and proactively support our cmmunity in uganda to stamp out stigma, raise awareness and promote mental wellbeing.
Gulu and the surrounding areas, have been significantly impacted by the long-lasting effects of the civil war that ravaged the Acholi sub-region for over 20 years. The prolonged conflict, characterised by violence, displacement, and trauma, has had a profound impact on the mental health of the population in Gulu and the surrounding areas. As a result, Northern region has one of the highest rates of mental illness in Uganda, with many individuals experiencing various mental health challenges as a direct consequence of the conflict.
Our team that already works with Young Ethnic minority youth in UK has identified to work with the youth in Northern uganda to highlight stigma related to mental illness, causes, and availability of evidence based treatment. We will run through 6 districts in uganda with 6 stop overs to complete psycho- education in medical centres on mental wellbeing. The series of psychoeducation sessions in medical centers will provide valuable information on mental health, stigma reduction, causes of mental illness, and the availability of treatment options. These sessions will empower individuals with knowledge, resources, and support to prioritise mental well-being and seek help when needed
we will then be joined by schools from layibi to Pece Stadium to continue our sessions with students and stake holders.
Activities:
1- Kampala -Gulu 335Km Run from Akamwesi gardens in kampala to Pence stadium in Gulu. 03/11/2024- 9/11/2024
2- Stakeholder Discussion and Fundraising: The stakeholders' panel discussion and fundraising event on the 9th of November will provide a platform for key stakeholders to come together, share insights, and support youth mental health projects. This collaborative effort can mobilise resources, raise awareness, and drive sustainable initiatives to address mental health challenges in the communit
3- 10/11/2024 School Engagement: Involving schools in mental health discussions and organising activities like the Inter-School Football for Mental Health and Well-being event is a creative and engaging way to promote mental health awareness among youth. By targeting schools, the team will reach a significant audience and instill positive attitudes towards mental health from a young age.
4- 11/11/2024-12th: Community Mental Health Awareness: By Partnering with Ugandan stakeholders for public health community mental health awareness events at Gulu University on the 11th and 12th of November will enhance the impact of our initiative. These events will contribute to building a culture of mental health awareness, advocacy, and support within the community
Call for Support: The call for support towards meals, materials, school supplies, and essential items for youth in need, such as books, pens, and sanitary pads, is crucial for the success of your initiative. Encouraging individuals to stand up for a good cause and contribute to the well-being of the youth underscores the importance of community involvement and collective action in addressing mental health challenges.