The World Health Organization (WHO) Uganda has announced a new partnership with the Ugandan government aimed at addressing the significant mental health crisis affecting approximately 32% of the population.
This collaboration seeks to enhance access to mental health services and improve resource availability for those in need.
In a post shared on X on October 11, 2024, WHO Uganda highlighted the global mental health crisis, noting that 1 in 8 individuals worldwide experience mental health conditions without receiving necessary treatment.
“Access to mental health services is essential, and we are committed to working with the government to make these services more accessible for everyone in Uganda,” the organization stated, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to tackle this growing public health concern.
The partnership’s strategy includes several key initiatives: increasing mental health awareness, integrating mental health care into primary health services, and ensuring healthcare workers are adequately trained to provide support. These efforts aim to reduce the burden of mental illness and improve the quality of life for millions of Ugandans.
With mental health issues on the rise globally, the alarming statistic that 32% of Ugandans suffer from mental illness underscores the urgency for immediate action.
Through this partnership, WHO Uganda will support the government in strengthening mental health services across the country, focusing on improving the availability of resources and expanding outreach to vulnerable populations.