Psychiatric expert Musawo Justine K. Odwongo highlights a troubling global surge in mental illness diagnoses—one that closely reflects Uganda’s own escalating mental health burden. According to the World Health Organisation, one in four people will experience a mental illness, with nearly 1 billion individuals worldwide currently affected. Uganda’s statistics align with this trend, reporting 14 million people living with mental disorders since 2022, leaving Butabika Hospital overwhelmed as the country’s only specialised mental health facility.

The UK is experiencing similar patterns, with rising cases of schizophrenia among adults and increasing diagnoses of anxiety, substance abuse, and bipolar disorder in children and adolescents.
Odwongo urges communities not to wait until the crisis reaches their homes. Key issues driving the rise in mental health challenges include domestic violence, youth substance abuse, trauma linked to poverty, workplace stress, and persistent stigma that prevents people from seeking help.

She emphasises the importance of mental health first aid within society, encouraging individuals to listen actively, recognise warning signs, promote open conversations, and guide others toward professional support. Additional recommendations include sharing mental health resources, practising self‑care, teaching coping strategies, and fostering patience and non‑judgmental attitudes.
Odwongo calls for stronger community education and advocacy to reduce stigma and improve access to mental health services, warning that without collective action, the crisis will continue to deepen.

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