Uganda urged to decriminalize suicide, prioritize mental health care

Advocates in Uganda are urging a shift in the nation’s approach to suicide, calling for its decriminalization and a greater focus on mental health reform. The consensus among mental health professionals, civil society groups, and lawmakers is that individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts need compassionate care and support, rather than facing legal repercussions.

During a press briefing in Kampala, stakeholders highlighted the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health and the limited access to services, arguing that criminalizing suicide attempts exacerbates the crisis. Grace Obalim, Mental Health Advisor at TPO Uganda, stressed that suicidal behavior is often the result of prolonged emotional and psychological distress, not a sudden decision. She pointed to warning signs such as persistent self-hatred, loss of interest, low mood, and social withdrawal, urging communities to recognize these as serious indicators.

Official figures show over 100 suicide-related cases in the past seven months, though experts believe the true number is higher due to underreporting. Obalim advocated for robust systems for early identification, referral, and treatment, coupled with a review of the Penal Code that criminalizes suicide and attempted suicide. “Everything shows suicide is a mental health challenge. Which human being wouldn’t want to live? It is a health challenge,” she stated.

Rebecca Nabirabwa of StrongMinds Uganda echoed these sentiments, asserting that “suicidal distress is a mental health crisis, not a crime.” She argued that criminalization discourages individuals from seeking help. The call for reform includes integrating mental health services into communities, schools, and primary healthcare centers, empowering community health workers and local leaders to provide support.

Dauda Mwebika from the Ministry of Education and Sports noted that nearly one in three school-going learners face mental health challenges, often stemming from domestic violence, parental neglect, substance abuse, and academic pressure. The ministry is working to implement national guidelines for mental health in schools and train teachers to identify and respond to learner needs. Lawmakers, like Mercy Omona of the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Mental Health, are pushing for concrete legislative action beyond awareness campaigns, advocating for “safe spaces” where individuals can discuss struggles without fear.

The collective push is for a coordinated national strategy that combines legal reform with increased investment in prevention, early intervention, and accessible treatment, ensuring that those in distress are met with help, not punishment.

This story was originally reported by Nile Post.