lifestyle 19 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ugandans Share Transformative Therapy Journeys Amid Mental Health Stigma
Several Ugandans opened up about seeking therapy to tackle grief, burnout, depression, and trauma, highlighting how professional support helped them heal and grow despite widespread stigma. Their stories challenge the notion that emotional struggles should be silently endured. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/entertainment/they-spoke-out-and-healed-within-candid-journey-through-therapy-5395898
In Uganda, mental health discussions have long been hindered by stigma and the expectation to simply push through emotional pain. However, a growing number of individuals are turning to therapy for relief from grief, burnout, and depression, as shared in candid accounts gathered by Gloria Irankunda.
Dorin Kansiime, an etiquette and hospitality trainer, hit a wall in 2023 with chronic exhaustion and sleeplessness from overwork. Prioritizing confidentiality, she found therapy to be a safe space to unpack childhood wounds and her father’s rejection. It empowered her to practice self-forgiveness and self-care, proving therapy strengthens rather than weakens.
Jaylor Birungi, a businesswoman in entertainment, faced overwhelming stress in 2019 when her mother fell ill, leading to unhealthy coping like excessive drinking. After self-reflection during Covid-19 lockdowns, weekly therapy sessions in 2023 helped her set boundaries, improve communication, and understand personal patterns shaped by her past.
Media personality Collins Bareija (Emeka) sought faith-based counseling in 2023 amid weight-related bullying and depression. Guided by his pastor, he learned his worth and shifted focus to future purpose, overcoming isolation and emotional eating.
Grace Kenganzi, a communications professional, carried trauma for three years after a friend’s death in her arms, resulting in apathy and withdrawal. Starting therapy in April 2025 as a self-gift, she processed grief over three months, gaining emotional awareness beyond what friends could offer.
Mental health advocate Rita Auma turned to Butabika Hospital in 2019 for her struggles, diagnosed with PTSD. Using writing to open up, she built coping tools, self-compassion, and resilience with family support, now promoting therapy for all seeking growth.
These stories underscore therapy’s value for self-understanding, countering fears of judgment, cultural taboos, and misconceptions that it’s only for crises or outsiders.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)