Gina de la Chesnaye, Nelia Ekeji, Priya Nagireddy, and Prophète Yemima’s Risk Reduction and Management Strategies Surrounding Mental Health Crises Stemming from Continuous & Multiple Disasters

In Karamoja Region in northeast Uganda, more than 61% of the population are living in poverty. Flood, drought, famine, armed conflicts, and the consequences of climate change all contribute negatively to the food insecurity crisis in the region, which caused 2,465 fatalities in 2022. Considering the mental health impact of ongoing and concurrent disasters in the affected areas, the group has created a disaster plan to raise mental health awareness and to engage local communities in Karamoja, Uganda.

With this plan, the authors aim to create a safe environment where inhabitants and aid workers are encouraged to seek mental health support. The authors also aim to empower local citizens to collaborate with government officials in promoting safety in Karamoja. The disaster plan includes a regional threat and hazards assessment, drills and exercises for food insecurity and psychological first aid, as well as a list of organizations that can provide short term relief to impacted populations.