Resumen
In Uganda, approximately 14 million people, or 35% of the population, are currently facing mental health challenges exacerbated by various factors such as post-COVID-19 trauma, protracted conflicts, migration, and poverty. The Uganda Ministry of Health has identified depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, HIV-related dementia, alcohol disorder, and anxiety as the most prevalent mental health issues in public and private hospitals. However, stigma surrounding mental health, a lack of resources and access to information, and inadequate funding (less than 1% of the total health budget) continue to hinder effective mental health care in the country.Despite regional and international commitments to prioritize mental health services, inclusive interventions remain limited. The National Association of Social Workers of Uganda (NASWU) is working to address these gaps by providing support to frontline social workers through mentorship, webinars, and mental health conferences. By focusing on reducing stigma, hopelessness, distress, and trauma, NASWU aims to strengthen community systems and improve mental health service delivery, particularly in disaster and post-disaster situations.NASWU's efforts have shown positive results, with reports indicating reduced stigma, distress, and trauma, as well as improved community mental health services. Through initiatives like a national virtual advocacy campaign, NASWU has helped frontline social workers enhance the efficiency of mental health services and build resilience among individuals, families, and communities. Moving forward, NASWU plans to continue collaborating with the Uganda Ministry of Health, social work agencies, universities, and civil society to expand their inclusive mental health interventions and scale up their impact.
Palabras Clave (separar con comas)
Covid-19, mental health, trauma