Mental Illness Affects 4 Million Ugandans

A leading psychiatrist, Dr. Margaret Mungherera, has said more than four million Ugandans are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD).

A leading psychiatrist, Dr. Margaret Mungherera, has said more than four million Ugandans are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD).Mungherera , also president of the Uganda Medical Association, said the most common PTSDs were manifested in the form of personality and character disorders.In an interview recently, she said PTSD occurred when one witnessed life-threatening events like military combat, natural disasters, terrorist incidents, serious accidents, or rape.Mungherera said people who suffer from PTSD often re-live the experience through nightmares and flashbacks, have difficulty sleeping, and feel detached or estranged, and these symptoms can be severe and last long enough to significantly impair the victim’s daily life.She said the disorder is a cause of pessimistic attitudes found among several Ugandans according to analyses of studies done across the country.Mungherera said PTSD frequently occurs with related disorders such as depression, substance abuse, memory problems and cognition, among other physical and mental health problems.(Source: Uganda Medical Association: NewVisions News: July 2004)