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Mental health cases are on the rise in Kabarole District, with health officials reporting that most patients seeking treatment are young girls and women.
According to the Kabarole District Health Officer, Dr. Stephen Kalyegira, Stephen Kalyegira, the Mental Health Unit at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital currently receives between 80 and 100 patients. He attributed the growing number of cases mainly to stress, substance abuse, and drug use among members of the community.
Dr. Kalyegira made the remarks during an Ebola preparedness and prevention stakeholders’ meeting organized by SOS Children’s Villages, where participants discussed strategies to strengthen community health services and improve mental health awareness.
The District Health Office urged residents, village leaders, and Local Council authorities to enact and enforce community by-laws aimed at reducing the sale and abuse of alcohol, noting that excessive alcohol consumption has contributed to the deterioration of mental health and social well-being in many villages.
Speaking at the meeting, Akugizibwe Clovis, the Village Health Team (VHT) Coordinator for Kicwamba Sub-county, said domestic violence remains a major contributor to mental illness and other health challenges within communities.
He called for greater collaboration between community leaders and health workers to address the root causes of mental health problems.
Meanwhile, Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Kabarole, Jane Benuza encouraged Village Health Teams to work closely with Local Council I chairpersons in addressing challenges affecting their communities. She proposed the creation of village WhatsApp groups where issues related to security, health, and domestic violence can be reported and addressed promptly.
The Deputy RDC also urged VHT members to share the knowledge and skills gained during the meeting with fellow community members, saying increased awareness at the grassroots level is essential in preventing mental health challenges and promoting healthier communities.