Kampala, Uganda – September 19, 2023 – Although 80% of the global population lives in low- and middle-income countries), high-income countries account for 90% of global mental health resources (WHO, 2005). Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and it is estimated that at least 20% of women in Africa experience depressive disorders, and 85%…
In July 2022, Eastern Uganda’s Mbale District was hit by a catastrophic flood, leaving a trail of ruin and destruction. Susan was just one of many who lost her home in the deluge as the bursting banks of the neighboring rivers Nabuyonga and Namatala overwhelmed the area. What’s more, Susan’s husband could not work after…
Empowering women is essential to reducing poverty and building better economies. When women are mentally healthy, they can contribute to society, achieve financial independence, and accelerate positive change. This month, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite photos of women doing just that. They are mothers. They are entrepreneurs. They are farmers. They are friends. …
We appreciate the recent attention we have received around the cost-effectiveness of Group Interpersonal Therapy (IPT-G) from two highly respected organizations: Happier Lives Institute and GiveWell. We welcome this conversation, as it elevates the dialogue around prioritizing mental health, which is much needed. Mental health treatment is still vastly underfunded, particularly in low- and middle-income…
Kampala, Uganda, February 21, 2023 – Mental healthcare is critical to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 2023 marks the halfway point for reaching the SDGs, which aim to end poverty and protect the planet by 2030. However, by current estimates, twenty-six countries in sub-Saharan Africa are not on track to meet any of…
The International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences (IADAS) announced StrongMinds as a winner in two categories for the 2nd Annual Anthem Awards on February 15, 2023. The awards, launched by the Webby Awards in 2021, recognize social impact work from across the globe in seven core causes ranging from Humanitarian Action and Services to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.…
Climate-related environmental disasters and infectious disease outbreaks are increasingly affecting mental health in Africa. Safety concerns and loss of life, property, or livelihoods can trigger or worsen mental health disorders in the aftermath of a catastrophe. Uganda has been particularly hard-hit recently, and StrongMinds is providing much-needed mental health support in affected regions. In July,…
When 16-year-old Gabriele first entered Uganda as a South Sudanese refugee, he never imagined he’d soon be traveling to Kampala to lobby Parliament and Ministry officials for new mental health policies. Gabriele, who attends school in Uganda’s Palabek refugee settlement, is one of nearly 12,000 adolescents in Africa who have received depression treatment from StrongMinds…
Poor countries are developing a new paradigm of mental health care. America is taking note. This is what the future of mental health could look like. By Sigal Samuel, Senior Reporter at Vox When you look at the numbers, it’s easy to gape in horror. In Ghana, a nation of 32 million people, there are only…
Published by Meenakshi Dalal, Media Relations Officer at WHO Regional Office for Africa Kampala – Poor access to mental health care in many African countries due to low government investment is one of the major hurdles to prevention and care services. On average African governments allocate less than 50 US cents per capita to mental…