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The world health organization website indicates that 5% of the adult population is battling depression and anxiety.
In sports, athletes across various disciplines have battled depression and anxiety, with some overcoming mental health struggles while others have failed and even take care of their lives.
Edgar Kazibwe, a sport psychologist training in a Masters program with Staffordshire University in the United Kingdom, says the need to increase mental health awareness among Ugandan athletes is vital.
"First, it's about bringing qualified personnel to speak to athletes. Sports institutions must have workshops for administrators, coaches and players," Kazibwe told Pulse Sports before adding.
"If you raise the awareness more, people will start appreciating it. The more we have awareness, the more athletes will perform at the highest level like is the case at European clubs and top performing athletes."
Kazibwe added: "Our athletes go through a lot on and off the field, so if you add the bit where they can't talk to anyone for professional help, it gets worse. As a result, others abuse substances, which affects their careers."
A rallying call to cater for athletes' mental health is what Kazibwe is advocating for as he provides sports psychology support to Victoria Pearls.
The Pearls are preparing for the Suluhu Hassan T20 Cup set to take place from March 2nd-13th in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.
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