IUIU introduces psycho-social support campaign for students

By Sarah Nalule
University students are facing a silent struggle with mental health, prompting experts to sound the alarm and demand immediate action to provide urgent psychosocial support.
According to Juliet Nabbanja, assistant commissioner for clinical services at the Ministry of Health, common mental health issues affecting university students include depression, anxiety, substance misuse, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation, often stemming from financial struggles, academic pressure, and social relationships.

Speaking at the launch of the mental health awareness campaign at Islamic University In Uganda (IUIU) Kampala campus last week, Nabbanja emphasized the importance of empowering students to navigate complex social relationships and avoid stress associated with peer pressure, which can begin as early as secondary school.
“We urge students to avoid using dangerous drugs, as they pose a significant health risk and can lead to addiction, potentially increasing mental health issues,” Nabbanja said.

Nabbanja noted that addressing drug abuse requires a collaborative effort beyond the Ministry of Health, involving multiple stakeholders to support the young generation.
“We’re pleased that IUIU has identified the problem early and established counseling services, peer support groups, and partnerships with mental health organizations,” she added.

Dr Ahmed Taha Kasule, director of IUIU Kampala campus, cautioned students about the risks of keeping silent about their mental health struggles.
“Due to the increasing number of students suffering from mental illness, we’ve created a support club where they can access support and share their challenges freely,” Kasule said.
He noted that lecturers have been trained to identify potential cases and provide necessary support while respecting students’ rights.

Annette Karungi, head of the sexual and gender-based violence/trafficking unit at Police CID Headquarters Kibuli, highlighted that stigmatisation has devastating effects, leading to a surge in unreported cases of mental health issues and victimisation.
“This issue affects not only students but also their relatives and family members, who often take longer to identify the problem,” Karungi said.

The campaign aims to promote mental health awareness, resilience, and support among youth, encouraging students to seek help without fear of stigmatisation. IUIU seeks to foster a supportive academic environment, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental well-being and academic success.