Mental health non-profit Strong Minds Uganda has hit a remarkable milestone — successfully treating one million Ugandans battling depression.
At an event commemorating this achievement, founder Sean Mayberry credited the organization’s success not only to external support or grand gestures, but to one key factor: a passionate, homegrown team.
“What has permitted us to reach one million depression sufferers in the country,” Mayberry said, “was really internal. It was about building the strong team that we have — 100% Ugandans, committed to the cause.”
Starting with just four people, Strong Minds Uganda has grown to nearly 200 staff, and expanded its reach into schools, prisons, and communities across Uganda.
The organization’s close collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Education has enabled it to build sustainable mental health programs in what Mayberry calls “model districts.”
Equally central to Strong Minds’ mission is ending the stigma surrounding mental illness. According to Mayberry, de-stigmatization is not a one-off campaign but a “basket of approaches.” He emphasizes community education and, most powerfully, the testimonies of those who’ve recovered.
“Graduates of our programs — people who have become depression-free — are now voices in their communities,” he said. “De-stigmatization is a person-by-person effort. It spreads from mouth to mouth, heart to heart.”
Looking forward, Strong Minds aims to deepen its ties with government agencies, empowering local leaders and volunteers to scale the model in more districts.
“No organization is more capable and more present than the government,” Mayberry concluded. “Our future is about giving the power of depression treatment to the community — led by the government.”
As Uganda continues to grapple with rising mental health needs, Strong Minds’ milestone marks a significant stride toward a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare system.