Title: “Behind the Smiles: The Hidden Struggle with Depression Among Youth in Kabale”
By Isaac Johns | The Voice Magazine – Kabale
In the hills of Kabale, our youth carry more than just books and backpacks. Behind warm greetings and bright smiles, a silent crisis is growing — one that few are talking about openly. Depression among young people is becoming increasingly common, and tragically, in some cases, it’s leading them down a path toward suicide.
The Unspoken Battle
In many Ugandan communities, mental health is not often discussed. Depression is sometimes mistaken for laziness, bad behavior, or spiritual weakness. But it’s none of these. It’s a real, medical condition — and it’s affecting our young people right here in Kabale.
Whether it’s a student at Kabale University, a teenager at a local secondary school, or a youth at home trying to find work, many are quietly struggling with overwhelming sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness. Unfortunately, due to stigma and lack of mental health education, most suffer in silence.
What’s Causing It?
While each young person’s experience is unique, some common challenges include:
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Academic pressure and unemployment: The struggle to succeed in school and then find meaningful work can create deep feelings of frustration and despair.
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Family and social challenges: Conflict at home, broken relationships, or even peer pressure can weigh heavily on a young mind.
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Social media influence: Although technology connects us, it also fosters comparison and unrealistic standards, especially among youth.
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Lack of mental health resources: Many schools and communities don’t have counselors or psychologists available, leaving young people with no one to turn to.
When these challenges pile up, and young people feel there’s no hope, some begin to see suicide as the only way out. It is heartbreaking — and preventable.
We Must Break the Silence
As a community, we must start speaking about mental health openly and with compassion. Just like malaria or a broken leg, depression is an illness — not a weakness. And just like any illness, it needs care and support.
Let’s stop using phrases like “just be strong” or “you’ll get over it.” Instead, let’s say, “I’m here for you,” “I understand,” and “You’re not alone.”
What Can We Do in Kabale?
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Encourage open conversations in families, churches, schools, and among friends. It starts with talking — truly listening — and not judging.
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Train teachers and community leaders to recognize signs of depression, such as withdrawal, sudden changes in behavior, or talk of hopelessness.
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Promote access to mental health services: Kabale Regional Referral Hospital and some NGOs offer mental health support. We need to ensure more youth know where to go for help.
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Support peer-led initiatives: Youth talking to youth can make a powerful difference. Programs in schools, churches, and even WhatsApp groups can offer connection and support.
A Message to Our Youth
To every young person reading this: your life matters. Depression is not the end of your story. If you're hurting, please speak to someone — a friend, a teacher, a counselor, a parent, or a religious leader. You are not alone, and you are not forgotten.
To every adult, guardian, and leader: create space for youth to talk without fear. Listen to them. Believe them. Guide them.
Where to Get Help in Kabale
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Kabale Regional Referral Hospital – Mental Health Unit
Offers counseling and psychiatric services. Visit the outpatient department or ask for mental health services at the reception. -
Reach Out Uganda – Mental Health Program
Sometimes offers outreach in southwestern Uganda. Follow their updates or visit their Kampala office for referrals. -
Religious and school-based counseling
Many churches and secondary schools in Kabale are beginning to embrace youth counseling. Encourage youth to attend youth fellowships or clubs where mental wellness is discussed.
Let us rise together as a community to protect our most precious resource — our youth. Because no dream should be buried by silence, and no life should end because help came too late.
