WEJULI JR MIKE: Mental health issues among students

Mental health issues have become a growing concern among young people around the world, including in Uganda. With the increase in academic pressure, social media influence, and economic hardships, students are increasingly susceptible to experiencing mental health issues such as depression. 

Over depression is a phenomenon that affects students in Uganda and has become a major issue of concern. Over depression is a state of prolonged sadness, hopelessness, and low mood, which interferes with an individual’s daily activities. It is often caused by prolonged exposure to stressful events, such as academic pressure, social isolation, and traumatic experiences. Students in Uganda are exposed to many of these stressors, leading to an increased risk of over depression.

Academic pressure is one of the major causes of over depression in students in Uganda. Uganda’s education system is highly competitive, and students are expected to excel academically to secure a better future. This expectation creates a lot of pressure on students, leading to feelings of hopelessness, despair, and low self-esteem. Additionally, the lack of resources in schools, such as textbooks and well-equipped libraries, adds to the pressure and makes it difficult for students to perform to their full potential.

Social media influence is another cause of over depression in students in Uganda. Social media has become a powerful tool for communication and information sharing, but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety. Students in Uganda are exposed to social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where they are constantly bombarded with images of perfect lives, successful people, and idealized beauty standards. This can make students feel inadequate and lead to feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

Economic hardships are also contributing to the rise of over depression in students in Uganda. Many students come from low-income families and struggle to meet their basic needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing. This economic hardship can cause stress and anxiety, leading to depression. Additionally, the lack of opportunities for employment after graduation can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.

The consequences of over depression among students in Uganda are significant. It can lead to poor academic performance, social isolation, and a decline in physical health. It can also lead to substance abuse, self-harm, and even suicidal thoughts. Unfortunately, mental health services in Uganda are limited, and many students do not have access to the support they need to manage their mental health issues.

To address this growing concern, it is essential that mental health services are made more accessible to students in Uganda. This can include increasing the number of trained mental health professionals and improving access to mental health facilities. Additionally, schools can adopt policies that promote mental health awareness and support for students experiencing mental health issues.

In conclusion, over depression is a significant concern among students in Uganda, and it is essential that steps are taken to address this issue. Academic pressure, social media influence, and economic hardships are all contributing factors to the rise of over depression in students. By improving access to mental health services and promoting mental health awareness, we can help support students in Uganda and improve their overall well-being.