Uganda is feared to be at a crossroads in the battle against mental health and addiction, where individuals, families, and communities bear heavy burdens from mental illness and its associated effects.

This concern was voiced by Archbishop Augustine Kasujja, the Apostolic Nuncio, while presiding over a Mass at Serenity Center Kabulamuliro, Bwebajja in Wakiso, celebrating 24 years of service.

He noted that one out of every four Ugandan adults (24.2%) lives with a mental disorder, most commonly depression and anxiety, according to Natural Mental Health 2024.

Archbishop Kasujja further highlighted that 17.6% of school-going students suffer from addiction to alcohol, drugs, and substance abuse, which often leads to school dropout.

Parents, especially mothers, are trapped in cycles of depression without access to care, and families are torn apart by untreated addiction, among other challenges.

Dr. Hafsa Lukwata, Commissioner in Charge of Mental Health at the Ministry of Health, revealed that over 35% of Ugandans consume alcohol daily, a dangerous trend, urging the public to pay special attention to women.

Emmanuel Mubangizi, Executive Director of Serenity Center, assured that confidentiality and anonymity of clients are strictly observed per center protocols.

He also announced plans to establish a special facility dedicated to women.

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