By Rosa Kemirembe
Mental health challenges among young people in Uganda are on the rise, and the numbers are staggering. According to the World Health Organization (2019), Uganda’s suicide rate is about 4% of the general population, which accounts for just over 2 million people annually. Alarmingly, many of these cases involve young people in primary and secondary schools. In an article published by the Monitor Newspaper On March 3, 2025, the government of Uganda raised a red
flag on the rising cases of mental illness and stress in schools.
But before we delve deeper into this crisis, let’s first understand the basics: What is mental health, and how is it different from mental illness? Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Good mental health allows us to handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. On the other hand, mental illness refers to conditions that affect a person’s thinking, mood, or behavior, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. The symptoms of mental illness can vary but often include feelings of sadness or hopelessness, extreme mood changes, withdrawal from friends and activities, difficulty concentrating, and changes in eating or sleeping patterns. In severe cases, it can lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Ignoring these signs can be detrimental. Mental health challenges don’t just go away on their own. If left unaddressed, they can escalate into a full-blown crisis, affecting not only the individual but also their families and communities.
Mental health among young people in Uganda is a growing concern and approximately 14% of Ugandan adolescents experience significant mental health challenges, with depression and anxiety being the most common. But why is this happening? Let’s break it down. In Uganda, students face immense pressure to perform well in exams. The emphasis on grades and the fear of failure can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and even depression. For many students, this pressure starts as early as primary school. Additionally, many people in Uganda still view mental illness as a sign of weakness or even a curse. This stigma prevents young people from seeking help and discourages families from addressing the issue openly.
Poverty also plays a significant role. Many young people in Uganda come from low-income families, and the stress of financial instability can take a toll on their mental health. Some students are forced to drop out of school to support their families, while others face abuse or neglect at home. Peer pressure is another major factor. In schools, young people often face pressure to fit in with their peers. This can lead to risky behaviors, such as substance abuse, bullying, or engaging in activities that go against their values. Peer pressure can also exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, which can contribute to mental health challenges.
Compounding these issues is the lack of resources. Uganda has very few mental health professionals, and in schools, mental health services are almost nonexistent. Most schools don’t have counselors or psychologists, and teachers often lack the training to identify and support students struggling with mental health issues.
This is where organizations like Teaching for Success (TFS) are stepping in. TFS is working tirelessly to raise awareness about mental health in schools and equip teachers and parents with the tools they need to support young people. For example, TFS has developed training programs for teachers to help them recognize the signs of mental illness and provide initial support to students. They also organize workshops for parents to educate them about mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it. But it’s not just about identifying the problem—it’s about knowing which professionals to reach out to. In many cases, students need more than just a listening ear. They need access to counselors, therapists, or psychologists who can provide professional help.
The reality is, some students will attempt or go through with suicide. But if we act early, we can prevent many of these tragedies. It’s about being proactive, not reactive. It is so important to create safe spaces for young people to express their feelings. Schools need to implement mental health programs, and parents need to have open conversations with their children. We also need to advocate for more mental health professionals to be connected to schools and communities.
The work of Teaching for Success is not just about addressing the symptoms of mental health challenges; it’s about creating a culture of understanding and support. By equipping teachers and parents with the right tools, TFS is helping to build a future where young people feel seen, heard, and valued. Their goal is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive, both academically and emotionally. As we continue to raise awareness about mental health, let’s remember that it’s a shared responsibility. Together, we can create a society where young people are empowered to seek help and where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.
About the author:
Rosa Kemirembe is a passionate advocate for mental health and education in Uganda. With years of experience working with young people and their families, Rosa is dedicated to creating safe spaces for students to thrive. Through her work with organizations like Teaching for Success, she is helping to break the stigma surrounding mental health and equipping communities with the tools they need to support the next generation.
info.teachingforsuccess@gmail.com
