Media and mental health in Uganda

Objective: The media is largely regarded as an important stakeholder in health service delivery; with a great influence on public attitudes. However; little is known about its interest in mental health and the guiding factors that influence media coverage of mental health issues. This article describes the importance accorded to mental health by the media and the factors that influence media coverage of mental health issues in Uganda. Method: Semi-structured interviews were held with representatives from six prominent media houses as part of the situational analysis of the mental health system in Uganda. Data was analyzed using Nvivo 7 qualitative data analysis software. Results: The media was found to be interested and actively involved in health initiatives; but with little attention devoted to mental health. Coverage and interest in mental health was noted to be mainly dependent on the individual journalists' interests; and mostly for personal reasons. Low interest was largely attributed to mental health being perceived as a non-priority area; and the fact that mental illness is not a major contributor to mortality. Media coverage and reporting is guided by prioritization of the Health Department. Conclusion: The media in Uganda is an important stakeholder in the health care system with a key role of advocacy; publicity and mass education. Media houses however are less interested in mental health as evidenced by low coverage of mental health issues. This calls for advocacy and sensitization as a way of persuading media for more involvement in mental health initiatives

Integration of mental health into primary health care in a rural district in Uganda

Objective: Mental health has been identified as a major priority in the Ugandan Health Sector Strategic Plan. Efforts are currently underway to integrate mental health services into the Primary Health Care system. In this study; we report aspects of the integration of mental health into primary health care in one rural district in Uganda. Method: Qualitative methods were used for data collection. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with various stakeholders within the ministry of health as well as line ministries. Data analysis was done using Nvivo 7; specifically adopting framework analysis approach. Results: Attempts to offer organized mental health services were found to be present in only a few health facilities. The district had only a single mental health nurse; and very few General Health Workers adequately equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide mental health services. The vertical referral system was not being followed as planned and there was no evidence of any organized community interventions for those with mental disorders. The mental health nurse and a few PHC nurses however expressed interest and commitment to providing services for persons with mental illness; despite the challenges. Conclusion: Although mental health is expected to be integrated into primary health care; mental health services in this district have not yet achieved the expected level of integration. This implies that this important policy requirement has not yet been effectively realized in this rural district; which could be the case in many other districts of a similar status. There is thus a need to direct more efforts towards realization of this important policy requirement