I try to sit with myself first: Alex Bagonza, aka A Pass
He is celebrated for his introspective songwriting and his ability to infuse deep emotion into his craft, approaching mental well-being with a unique blend of self-reflection and candid vulnerability. A Pass’ approach underscores the importance of internal processing before seeking external validation or immediate solutions. “Majority of the time, if I am going through anything mentally taxing, I sit down with myself first.”
“I believe it is important to truly feel what you are feeling, to acknowledge it without judgment, and to accept whatever you are going through, however uncomfortable it may be,” the musician adds. While A Pass emphasises this vital internal dialogue, he also recognises the indispensable role of human connection. “I think it is important to also see people who you can talk to, say a trusted friend,” he adds. “But if anything gets too much, if the weight becomes too heavy to bear alone, I usually like to talk to my close friends.
I am fortunate to have good friends and a solid support system.” He candidly acknowledges the emotional challenges inherent in relationships, particularly romantic ones. He reflects at the deep emotional toll that relational complexities can exert, saying relationships are often the biggest battleground for mental well-being. His personal healing process, however, consistently circles back to his initial strategy; self-honesty and acceptance. “I sit down with myself, feel what I am feeling, accept whatever I am going through, and then try to find a way to move forward.
If I cannot find the way, then I accept the situation for what it is. That is how I primarily try to heal,” A Pass explains. In a culture that relentlessly pressures men to suppress their emotions, to always appear strong and unfazed, A Pass offers a refreshingly authentic alternative: a path rooted in self-honesty, radical acceptance, and the cultivation of meaningful, supportive connections. Ultimately, to him true strength lies in confronting one’s inner world with courage and compassion.
I smiled for the world but I was crumbling inside: Bryan McKenzie Sabiiti
He is a prominent media personality and dedicated father, two worlds that embody the harsh reality of how quickly one’s identity can be shaken, leading to mental health challenges. His openness about battling anxiety, depression, and even a period of substance abuse serves as a stark reminder that mental illness spares no one, regardless of public image or perceived success.
“When I made the decision to step away from the media spotlight in 2017, I felt as though I had lost my entire identity,” Mckenzie recounts, his voice tinged with the memory of that disorienting period. “The Covid-19 lockdown further exacerbated things; I looked in the mirror and genuinely could not recognise the person staring back. I wore a smile for the world, but inside, I was utterly crumbling.” It was during the isolating depths of the pandemic that Mckenzie courageously turned to therapy, a decision that proved to be a beacon of clarity and healing.
“I always tell people that therapists are the invaluable mechanics of the mind,” he asserts, using a powerful, relatable analogy. “You simply cannot keep driving a car that is fundamentally broken; eventually, it will break down completely. Our minds are no different.” Through consistent therapeutic engagement, the radio presenter found the tools to navigate his internal landscape. He now prioritises daily walks, a simple yet potent act of self-care, consciously avoids unhealthy dependencies, and approaches his life with renewed purpose and intentional planning.
“Sharing my story has been incredibly liberating,” he says, adding, “It has also created a ripple effect, inspiring countless others to open up about their own struggles. There is an undeniable, transformative power in vulnerability, a strength that arises from daring to be seen in our imperfections.” Mckenzie’s journey is a powerful testament to the fact that hitting rock bottom can be a catalyst for profound personal growth and that authenticity can be a powerful tool for collective healing.
Do not go through it alone: Emmanuel Kintu Lovati
A psychologist and communication consultant, Emmanuel Kintu says mental health embodies the critical intersection of professional insight and personal experience. He navigates the intricate landscape of mental well-being with a rare cantor, openly sharing his own battles with anxiety, depression, and periods of profound emotional exhaustion. He recollects his voice steady yet imbued with the weight of past struggles, “Depression crept in silently and made everyday tasks feel like heavy burdens. I felt numb, disconnected from myself and the world around me. But what helped most was acknowledging that I did not have to face it alone. That realisation was my first step towards healing.” For Kintu, therapy was not just a professional tool; it was a deeply personal and transformative journey.
“Even as a psychologist, I needed someone objective to walk with me through my darkest moments,” he explains, highlighting the universal need for external support, regardless of one’s background or expertise. “Therapy gave me practical tools to cope, new perspectives to reframe my thoughts, and a safe space to unpack years of internalised pain.
It did not erase my struggles, but it helped me reconnect with myself, to find the light again.” His powerful advice resonates deeply: “Be kind to yourself, talk to someone you trust, and remember that healing begins when we stop pretending to be okay.” Kintu’s story is a testament to the fact that even those who understand the mind best can benefit immensely from professional guidance, shattering the myth that psychologists are immune to mental health challenges.
Art helped me find my voice: Philip Balimunsi
As the esteemed curator at the Uganda National Cultural Centre, Philip Balimunsi has dedicated his life to championing creative expression and empowering artists to share their narratives. Yet, behind his impressive professional accolades and public persona, lay a deeply personal struggle with feelings of invisibility and the subtle, yet relentless, resistance to change within his career environment.
“I grew up feeling unseen, unheard,” he shares, a quiet intensity in his voice. “Even in my professional life, there has often been a pervasive, almost intangible resistance to new ideas, to pushing boundaries. It takes an immense toll on one’s spirit and sense of self-worth.” For Balimunsi, curating became more than just a job; it evolved into a profound form of therapy, a sanctuary where he could process his own pain and discover his resilience.
He explains, “Through the stories conveyed by the artists, through their struggles and their triumphs, I began to see reflections of my own journey, my own pain, and my own capacity for endurance.” “Art became my safe space, a mirror reflecting the universal human experience.” His first formal therapy session occurred abroad, during an international leadership programme - a pivotal moment that opened new pathways to self-discovery.
“At first, it felt like a purely creative exercise, a prompt to explore narratives,” he recalls. “But it quickly unearthed powerful, long-buried memories and emotions. Therapy, in essence, helped me articulate and write my own truth, to finally give voice to the unspoken chapters of my life.” Balimunsi’s experience highlights the therapeutic power of artistic engagement and the profound insights that can emerge when one steps outside their comfort zone to confront internal struggles.
Music is my therapy: Daniel Kigozi, aka Navio
A multi award-winning hip hop artiste, Navio has for years projected an image of unyielding strength and unwavering confidence. Yet, beneath the veneer of fame and success, he too grappled with the Invisible pressures of his profession and personal life. "African men are traditionally raised to suppress emotions, to present a façade of Impenetrable resilience," he thoughtfully reflects "But behind the scenes, away from the stage lights and public gaze, we are human too.
We feel, we hurt, we struggle he adds Navio candidly speaks about facing Intense periods of burnout, the relentless pressure of public scrutiny and the profound emotion al weight that comes with fatherhood.
His pathways to healing have been through music, nature, and meaningful conversations. "I have not gone to therapy yet, "he admits, acknowledging the journey is ongoing consciously unplugging from the digital noise, and by simply walking by the serene lake, allowing nature to calm my mind. "I have found immense healing through deep talks with my family, through.
Therapy is powerful, it is a legitimate path to healing, and as men, we must work to normalise seeking such help. It is not a weakness, it is a courageous act of self-preservation"
His narrative underscores the diverse avenues to mental wellness, recognising that while formal therapy is crucial, complementary practices and strong social bonds play an equally vital role.
I find comfort is food and places: Lule Ssemwanga
For Godfrey Lule Ssemwanga, a tourism professional and entrepreneur, grief has been his most relentless and unforgiving teacher. His journey through loss has reshaped his understanding of healing and resilience. He has had to deal with intense, recurring waves of grief throughout his life. “Death hits me hard. I genuinely struggle with burying loved ones, the finality of it all.”
“Loss of loved ones has forced me to refocus my existence on living one day at a time, appreciating the present moment more than ever before.” His coping mechanisms are deeply personal, spiritual, and inherently holistic. “I build my faith knowing that one day my Jesus should be back for me,” he says. I may not define therapy in the conventional way that society often prescribes, but my therapy is food, far places, and sacred prayer.” Lule strongly emphasises that recovery is inextricably linked to reconnection– with self, with family, and with community.
