Pay more attention to mental health

There has been an increase in the prevalence of mental health concerns like depression and anxiety during the current Covid-19 pandemic in Uganda.  There is a myriad of factors contributing to this and some include;

Financial issues.  The Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown periods have led to destabilization of the earning potential of many in Uganda. This has led to housing, job and food insecurity. When people are stressed about searching for basic resources for survival, it affects their mental health.

Health concerns. With the emergence of more transmissible variants of the coronavirus, many are concerned about the survival of their relatives who may contract Covid-19. Furthermore, there’s an infodemic of false information spreading on some social media sites for instance regarding the effects of the vaccine, and even about coronavirus itself. 

Increased inaccessibility to healthcare. The current lockdown, as last year’s, includes strict restrictions on movement. This has led to many being unable to access healthcare facilities when need arises.  This issue has been further compounded by the decreased affordability of health care. 

Loss of community. The physical distancing, closure of places of worship and the inability to travel to see and be with friends and family, due to the imposed lockdown, causes isolation. This is beneficial in limiting the spread of Covid-19 but has on the downside also led to feelings of loneliness and despair among people. 

There are several barriers to the attainment of quality mental health care. Some include lack of awareness, resources (finances and mental health professionals), access to services and mental-illness related stigma.

Mental illness is a taboo topic in some African cultures. It is still highly stigmatized and misunderstood. Some often linking its cause drugs and substance abuse as well as the mystical. 

Stigma also exists within the healthcare system. Healthcare providers also tend to hold and vocalize pessimistic views about the reality and likelihood of recovery for people with mental problems.

This acts as a barrier to the patients’ recovery.  

 Despite all the issues, progress can steadily still be made to address mental health concerns and increase access to quality mental healthcare.  Various evidence-based approaches like mindfulness, awareness and skills training can be used to combat stigma in healthcare environments.  

Screening people and encouraging dialogue about any anxiety or depression one may be feeling at every visit to a healthcare provider. Healthcare providers should encourage their patients with mental health concerns to reach out to organizations that help and advocate for people with mental illnesses. Some of these also have toll free numbers.

Radio and TV programmes can also be used to spread awareness about mental health and dispel unconscious biases, negative attitudes towards those who have mental illnesses or who want to seek help. Radio programmes with crisis assistance hotlines can also help those struggling with mental health problems while still maintaining their anonymity.  

Efforts should be focused on incorporating mental health care into general health care plans. 
 Claire Marunga Banura,     [email protected]