A hotline to support young people’s mental health in Uganda

Feeling heard, not judged

The young people calling the MHU helpline are not just seeking therapy – they want to be heard. Timothy Malindi, an 18-year-old student at Makerere University and one-time user of the hotline, described the relief of finally finding someone who would listen without judging: “Talking helped. I felt heard, not judged.”

That small act of listening may not solve every problem, but it can initiate a healing process and avert crises. It reminds Uganda’s youth that their pain is valid, and that they are not alone.

Still, the helpline is facing challenges. Calls made after hours often go to voicemail, with follow-up delayed until the next working day. For a young person in crisis, those hours can feel endless. Stakeholders are therefore pushing for weekend services and integration with broader community support systems, including primary health centres and schools.

Expanding mental-health efforts

MHU is partnering with Uganda’s Ministry of Health and has contributed to informing the country’s mental-health strategy. In line with a global-guidance document released by WHO and UNICEF in 2024, the country is now considering more integrated and globally recommended practices for dealing with mental health. This includes strengthening the formal health system as well as working with families and schools to build a supportive environment for young people.

Parents have a special responsibility here. They must listen to their children and take their concerns seriously. Since young people face complex pressures – from cyberbullying and unrealistic expectations shared on social media to stress at school, university and work – they need a safe space at home to express themselves without fear of ridicule or rejection.

Schools must evolve, too. While Uganda’s education system continues to focus on academic achievement, it must also prioritise student wellbeing. Teachers should be trained to recognise early warning signs of mental distress and offer support. School counsellors need to be empowered, and curricula should teach emotional literacy, helping students articulate their feelings and navigate life’s ups and downs.

The expansion of the MHU hotline sends a clear message to Uganda’s institutions, families and schools: mental health is not a luxury – it is essential. The earlier we take action, the more lives we can save. 

Links

Mental Health Uganda: 
mhu.ug

WHO, UNICEF, 2024: Mental health of children and young people. Service guidance.
https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240100374 

Ronald Ssegujja Ssekandi is a Ugandan author and lives in Kampala.  
[email protected] 

If you are thinking about taking your own life, please talk to friends and family about it. International suicide hotlines offer professional help:
blog.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines/