Trained community members provide support for vulnerable survivors of the 22-year war in northern Uganda, through counselling/medicine for mental illness, HIV counselling and agricultural training. Building the community’s ability to cope leads to economic productivity and sustainable development.
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The war that ravaged northern Uganda left Agago’s community traumatised. Thousands were killed, children were forced to become soldiers and alcoholism and rape were widespread. Northern Uganda now has one of the highest rates of mental illness globally, including depression, PTSD, anxiety, schizophrenia and epilepsy. Many people don't understand the causes of mental illness and so don't seek medical help. Even when they do, health workers rarely have the specialist skills or resources to help.
We’ve trained community members to counsel people with mental illness/epilepsy, as well as people with HIV, and offer practical support. They work with the psychiatric nurse at the local health centre and raise awareness so people understand the causes of mental illness and how to seek help. They follow up with clients and their families, which is crucial to sustained, good mental health. When people are ready, we provide agricultural inputs and training to help them become productive again.