Awareness-raising is an essential and integral part of BNUU’s community mental health programme. BNUU holds regular community awareness-raising sessions in the areas in which it works. These are attended by at least 30 people, many of whom have not been aware of mental illness and the treatment that is available. This awareness-raising results in many community members coming forward for treatment at the monthly mental health clinics and starting their journey to recovery. They go on to join self-help groups and eventually will be given livelihood start up items and continue in good health, free from poverty.
In October 2023, BNUU organised the first ever World Mental Health Day in Agago District and actively participated in national and regional celebrations with the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right”. Over 500 people attended the event, officiated by the Minister for Economic Monitoring in the Office of the President.
Like-minded organisations and teams from various health services, such as family planning, TB and diabetes screening, HIV/AIDs testing and screening joined us on a procession around Kalongo. We organised a climb of the rock in Kalongo, created an opportunity for district officials to hear from self-help group members who presented the current challenges, and allowed some time for reflection. The day ended with a football game between political leaders, civil servants and NGO/private sector workers. Everyone was encouraged to take part.
We received media coverage from television (NBS TV and Bethany TV), radio (talk show sponsored by Ambrosoli Memorial Hospital) and print (with a New Vision article).
On the eve of World Mental Health Day, BNUU organised a campfire gathering to discuss challenges affecting relationships/marriages and develop possible solutions. Young people had selected this topic due to widespread domestic violence that has led to depression. The gathering was attended by young people, political leaders, mental health organisations and practitioners and elders from the community.
