Uganda is facing a growing mental health burden, with new national data indicating that nearly one in four citizens is affected by mental health challenges. The findings, presented in the 2025 State of Uganda Population Report, point to economic pressures, particularly unemployment and underemployment among young people — as a major contributing factor.

According to Hon. Amos Lugoloobi, the country’s labour market is absorbing between 600,000 and 700,000 new entrants annually, the majority of whom are youth. However, limited job creation opportunities have left a significant number either unemployed or stuck in unstable work, increasing psychological stress and uncertainty about the future.

The report, released under the theme “Mental Health: A Silent Emergency,” frames mental wellbeing as a development issue rather than solely a health concern. With youth unemployment estimated at over 50 percent and millions of young people affected, policymakers are increasingly warning of long-term social and economic implications if the trend is not addressed.

Uganda’s youthful population further intensifies the urgency of the situation. With nearly half of the population below the age of 18 and the total population approaching 46 million, experts argue that safeguarding mental health is essential to harnessing the country’s demographic potential.

Health infrastructure remains another critical concern. National referral facilities such as Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital continue to operate under growing demand, highlighting the need for expanded rehabilitation services, more specialized personnel, and stronger community-based mental health support systems.

Development planners emphasize that tackling the crisis requires coordinated action beyond the health sector. Integrating mental health into education, employment policies, social protection, and youth programming is increasingly seen as key to building resilience and ensuring sustainable national growth.

Government and stakeholders have already initiated interventions, including integrating mental health services into primary healthcare, strengthening policy frameworks, and expanding awareness campaigns to reduce stigma. However, experts maintain that sustained investment, cross-sector collaboration, and targeted youth employment strategies will be crucial in reversing the trend and protecting the country’s future workforce.