By Our Reporter
Business consultant, Dr. Maggie Kigozi has advised Young People Living With HIV (YPLHIV) to support one another.
She made the remarks on Tuesday while speaking about mental health challenges among YPLHIV and how they can be addressed. This was during the opening day of Y+ Summit which is being held at Hotel Africana.
“In your communities, try and help other people. You have been empowered and have knowledge; you are managing your own body, and doing well. Share what you have learned with others.” She said.
She emphasized that psychosocial support works and is essential for improving the well-being of YPLHIV. Psychosocial support involves a range of care and support interventions such as care and support offered by caregivers, family members, friends, health workers, and community members on a daily basis.
“Mental health disorders in YPLHIV are there,” she further noted. “These are treatable. When you feel weak, are forgetful or feel angry for no apparent reason, seek medical attention.”
“Using psychosocial support does work, but also seek medical help.” She added.
According to Isaac Lekdyang, the executive director Uganda Network of Young People Living with HIV/AIDS (UNYPA), there are over 1.2 million Ugandans on antiretroviral drugs with half of these being young people who are 25 years and below.
Initiated in 2017, the Y+ Summit is a national assembly bringing together young people living with HIV and key influencers in HIV response. The summit is a platform for networking, comparing ideas, and perspectives in combating HIV.