Experts say there has been an increase in the cases of mental illnesses across Uganda and one of the main factors cited has been the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The most affected group of people has been children and adolescents and according to the management of Butabika National Mental Referral Hospital, this was majorly caused by psychological distress and drug abuse.

The COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the world from late 2019 to mid-2022 although some countries like China are still battling the flu-like deadly disease. The lockdowns imposed to prevent the spread and other tough measures left many people psychologically, emotionally and physically affected.

According to the management of Butabika National Mental Referral Hospital, the post COVID 19 period came along with an increase in the cases of mental illness from 900-950 to 1000-1050 patients. A number of factors have been cited for the exponential increment.

Even though the government fully funds Butabika Hospital, due to the increased number of patients, the leadership is calling for more funding.

Dr Nakku has also urged the population to seek mental healthcare at the regional referral hospitals, saying that it would reduce the number of patients admitted at Butabika and the pressure exerted on the facility

The management has also dismissed claims of forced admission of patients at Butabika, saying that any involuntary admission is intended to help the patient and the community as provided by the law.

She urged the public to collaborate with the hospital so that they help those who are mentally ill people recover instead of abusing their rights.

According to the doctors at Butabika Hospital, some of the major causes of mental illness are drug abuse, anxiety, stress, child abuse, poor parenting, forgetfulness, trauma, dementia among others.