Abstract:
The prevalence of mental health problems among Uganda university students, unlike globally,
has been poorly documented. The present paper posits that the provision of early mental
health interventions could prevent or reduce both current and future mental health problems,
including suicidal behaviours among Ugandan university students. Various studies in the field
of university student health have found the mental health of university student populations do
not have adequate psychotherapeutic services. Today, there is a growing recognition for the
need to increase investment in the promotion, prevention, and treatment approaches to mental
health and well-being as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3.4 developed by the
United Nations in 2015. However, little research has been carried out concerning the provision of
university mental healthcare services that address students at risk for mental ill-health including
suicidal behaviours on Ugandan university campuses. An assessment of the university mental
health service provision as a strategy to address student suicidal behaviours on campuses
in Uganda would provide insights that underlie the focused services needed through which
vulnerable university students can be addressed and helped. This calls for a strategic intervention
model, locally contextualized, developed and informed by the Sustainable Development Goals to
address the mental health and well-being of the students.
