Browsing by Author "Okalo, Ponsiano"
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Item An Analysis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Quality of Life Among Adults Living with HIV in Western Uganda(HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Kigongo, Eustes; Udho, Samson; Auma, Anna Grace; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Musinguzi, Marvin; Acup, Walter; Akello, Anne Ruth; Okalo, Ponsiano; Nabaziwa, Jannat; Shikanga, Enos Mwirotsi; Halima, NamataBackground: HIV/AIDS remains a significant global public health issue, profoundly impacting infected individuals. Living with HIV involves complex mental health dynamics, with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) being a prevalent challenge. This study aims to examine the correlation between PTSD and quality of life among HIV-positive individuals in western Uganda. Material and Methods: Conducted between May and July 2023, this facility-based cross-sectional study surveyed 439 participants from four HIV clinics in southwestern Uganda. Data were collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires, analyzed using descriptive statistics, simple linear regression, and multiple linear regression (p<0.05). Results: Respondents had a mean age of 40.6 years, with 68.3% female, 54.9% married, and 55.1% lacking formal education. The reported PTSD prevalence among HIV-positive individuals was 33.7%, significantly correlating with reduced overall quality of life (β = −4.52; p<0.001). The social quality of life had the highest mean score of 14.24 (±3.45) while the environmental quality of life had the lowest mean score 11.89 (±2.68). Conclusion: Our study reveals a concerning prevalence of PTSD, affecting 1 in 3 individuals, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive mental health support within HIV care settings. We observed a significant negative impact of PTSD on overall quality of life, particularly in physical and social aspects. Integrating mental health screening into routine HIV care is crucial, using validated tools like the PSTD Checklist Civilian Version, alongside training for healthcare providers to recognize PTSD symptoms in the context of HIV diagnosis and treatment.Item Burnout and coping mechanisms among healthcare professionals in central Uganda(Psychiatry, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Kigongo, Eustes; Okalo, Ponsiano; Udho, Samson; Auma, Anna Grace; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Akello, Anne Ruth; Musinguzi, Marvin; Acup, Walter; Nabaziwa, Jannat; Shikanga, Enos Mwirotsi; Namata, HaliamaBackground: The escalating global prevalence of burnout among healthcare professionals poses a serious health concern. Recent studies focus on prevalence and predictors of burnout among healthcare providers, emphasizing the need for well-being interventions. This study investigates burnout and coping mechanisms among healthcare professionals in central Uganda, addressing the dearth of knowledge about coping strategies specific to the region. Methods: An analytical facility cross-sectional study was conducted in five healthcare facilities in central Uganda between June to July 2023. Participants included physicians, nurses, and technicians actively engaged in direct patient care. Data were collected using socio-demographic surveys, the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL-5), and the Brief-COPE tools. Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of burnout, with 39.8% of participants experiencing significant levels. Active coping, positive reframing, and denial were negatively correlated with low burnout levels. Dysfunctional coping, specifically self-distraction and denial, showed positive correlations with average and high burnout levels. Emotion-focused coping mechanisms were not employed across burnout levels. Conclusions: The results emphasize the demanding nature of healthcare roles in the region and highlight the need for comprehensive, context-specific interventions to address burnout globally. While some healthcare professionals utilized adaptive strategies such as seeking social support, engaging in self-care activities, and utilizing problem-solving skills, others resorted to maladaptive coping mechanisms such as substance use and avoidance behaviors. This dichotomy highlights the need for targeted interventions to promote adaptive coping strategies and mitigate the negative impact of maladaptive behaviors on individual well-being and patient careItem Burnout and quality of life among healthcare workers in central Uganda(PLoS ONE, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Kigongo, Eustes; Okalo, Ponsiano; Udho, Samson; Auma, Anna Grace; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Akello, Anne Ruth; Musinguzi, Marvin; Acup, Walter; Nabaziwa, Jannat; Shikanga, Enos Mwirotsi; Namata, HaliamaBackground The widespread problem of burnout among healthcare workers is not only common but also a significant concern that impacts the entire healthcare system in Uganda. It is essential to understand the connection between burnout and quality of life among healthcare workers in the specific context of central Uganda, where healthcare professionals face high patient volumes, limited resources, exposure to infectious diseases, and socioeconomic challenges. This study examined the relationship between burnout and quality of life among healthcare workers in central Uganda. Methods This research utilized a cross-sectional study conducted across various healthcare settings in central Uganda. The data were analyzed at descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate levels. The relationship between dependent and independent variables was evaluated using an independent t-test for binary variables and a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for categorical variables. Significance was determined with a reported p-value, with relationships deemed significant at p < 0.2. For multivariable analysis, multiple linear regression was employed using a forward selection method, with significance set at 5% (p < 0.05). Results Our findings indicate that nearly 40% of healthcare workers reported experiencing high levels of burnout. The average score for overall quality of life was 10.71 (±4.89), with variations observed across different domains. The study reveals a significant connection between socio-demographic factors, burnout, and overall quality of life, emphasizing the impact of job category, supervisory support, sleep quality, and burnout on the well-being of healthcare workers. Predictive analysis illustrates how these factors influence both overall quality of life scores and scores in specific domains. Particularly noteworthy is that nurses and technicians tend to have a lower quality of life compared to physicians. Conclusion The results underscore the relationship between socio-demographic factors, burnout, and particular aspects of quality of life. Notably, job category, supervisory support, sleep quality, and burnout stand out as significant factors shaping the well-being of healthcare workers. Nurses and technicians encounter distinct challenges, suggesting the need for interventions tailored to their needs. Addressing issues such as inadequate supervisory support, burnout, and sleep-related problems is recognized as a potential approach to improving the overall quality of life among healthcare workers.Item Chronic stress and coping mechanisms among nurses in Lango sub-region, northern Uganda(Wiley Nursing Open, 2023) Kabunga, Amir; Kigongo, Eustes; Udho, Samson; Auma, Anna Grace; Okalo, Ponsiano; Apili, Brenda; Namata, Halimah; Nalwoga, ViolaAim: This study aimed to assess chronic stress and coping mechanisms among nurses in Lango sub-region, northern Uganda, conducted between May and June 2022. Design: Institutional-based cross-sectional design conducted between May and June 2022. Methods: The study included 498 participants recruited from six health facilities. A 12-Item Short Form Survey tool was used to collect data on chronic stress, while a researcher-developed questionnaire was used to collect data on coping strategies. Descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression and multiple regression were con ducted for data analysis. A p-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 498 participants, 153 (30.7%) were aged between 31 and 40 years, 341 (68.5%) were female, 288 (57.8%) were married, and 266 (53.4%) had less than Diploma. Of the 498 participants, 351 (70.5%) experienced chronic stress. The protective factors against chronic stress were being married (AOR: 0.132; 95% CI: 0.043–0.408; p< 0.001), optimizing shift length (AOR: 0.056; 95% CI: 0.027–0.115; p< 0.001), religiosity/Spirituality (AOR: 2.750; 95% CI: 1.376–5.497; p= 0.004), and regular exercise and breaks (AOR: 0.405; 95% CI: 0.223–0.737; p= 0.003)Item Ebola Epidemic Preventive Practices: Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Community Members in High-Risk Districts of Uganda(Journal of Infectious Diseases and Medicine, 2023) Kigongo*, Eustes; Auma, Ann Grace; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Namukwana, Beth; Musinguzi, Marvin; Okalo, Ponsiano; Kambugu, Caroline Nabasiry; Kabunga, AmirBackground: As part of the country's ongoing EVD outbreak preparedness activities in Uganda, our goal was to evaluate community knowledge and attitudes and preventive practices linked to the disease. Methods: This study employed a community-based cores sectional study among 842 participants. The study was conducted in three districts of Mubende, Kyegegwa and Kassanda in the central region of Uganda. These are high-risk districts in Uganda Results: Results show that the majority 290(34.4%) of the participants were aged between 28–38 years, 578(68.6%) were female, 482(57.2%) had primary education, 431(51.2) single, 369(44.7) unemployed and 196(23.8) received information from radios. Results indicate that 821(97.5%) of the participants had heard of EVD, and 646(76.7%) reported that EVD is a rare and deadly disease. On the mode of transmission, 562(66.7%) knew that EVD is transmitted through physical contact with an infected person, 498(59.1%) through blood and 606(72.0%) through normal social contact. Overall, 525 respondents were classified as having good knowledge of the Ebola virus disease, accounting for 62.4% of the total, whereas 470(55.8%) had a favorable attitude toward the management and prevention of the Ebola virus disease. A greater understanding of the Ebola virus disease was found among participants with increased age and education beyond the first grade compared to those with no formal education. Casual labourers were 3 times more likely to have good practices compared to agriculturalists. Participants who received information from others sources were less likely to have good practices compared to those who received it from the radio. Conclusion: Communities in Uganda impacted by filovirus outbreaks have a reasonable level of knowledge and a favourable attitude toward methods to prevent and control the Ebola disease. Public health officials should do more by providing instructional materials for future epidemic preparedness utilizing appropriate communication channels, especially, including local radios as reported by the communities. Keywords: Attitude • Ebola virus • Infection • Knowledge • PreventionItem Enhancing Mental Health Counseling for Education Professionals in Africa: Addressing Unique Needs and Improving Outcomes(B P International, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Nalwoga, Viola; Kigongo, Eustes; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Musinguzi, Marvin; Okalo, Ponsiano; Shikanga, Enos MwirotsiIn the vibrant and varied educational landscapes of Africa, the voices of resilience, dedication, and passion often overshadow the quieter, yet significant, struggles faced by those who shape our future: the education professionals. As we delve into “Enhancing Mental Health Counseling for Education Professionals in Africa: Addressing Unique Needs and Improving Outcomes,” we approach this endeavor with profound respect and commitment to the well-being of those who nurture the minds of tomorrow. Education professionals hold a critical role in shaping both the intellectual and emotional development of the next generation. Their unwavering commitment to education lays the groundwork for a better future. However, in the pursuit of academic excellence, their own mental health often remains neglected. This book aims to shed light on the critical intersection of mental health and education, specifically addressing the unique challenges encountered by educators across the diverse African continent. Throughout these pages, we delve into the cultural and contextual factors that influence the experiences of education professionals in Africa. We emphasize that the well-being of educators is intrinsically linked to the health and effectiveness of the educational systems they support. By examining mental health counseling as a transformative tool, we highlight its potential to build resilience, promote self-care, and enhance overall professional satisfaction. This book is more than an academic exploration; it is a call to action. We urge educational institutions, policymakers, and communities to prioritize the mental health of their educators. We advocate for a shift in perspective, encouraging the creation of environments where seeking mental health support is seen not as a weakness but as a reflection of the strength and dedication inherent in the teaching profession. As we address the nuanced issues of mental health counseling tailored to the African educational context, we hope this book will serve as a comprehensive guide, a source of inspiration, and a catalyst for positive change. It is our aspiration that this work will elevate the conversation around the mental well-being of education professionals and place it at the center of educational discourse. In our shared quest for educational excellence, let us remember that the well-being of those who facilitate learning is a fundamental pillar. Together, let us embark on a transformative journey to create nurturing and supportive environments for the individuals who are shaping the minds of the future. Keywords: Mental health counseling, education professionals, Africa, cultural sensitivity, resilience in education, and traditional practices in counselingItem Exploring Effective Approaches: Integrating Mental Health Services into HIV Clinics in Northern Uganda(HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative Care, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Namata, Halimah; Kigongo, Eustes; Musinguzi, Marvin; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Auma, Anna Grace; Nabaziwa, Jannat; Shikanga, Enos Mwirotsi; Okalo, Ponsiano; Nalwoga, Viola; Udho, SamsonBackground: Integrating mental health services into HIV clinics is recognized as a promising strategy. However, the literature reveals gaps, particularly in the unique context of Northern Uganda, where factors such as historical conflict, stigma, and limited resources pose potential barriers. Material and Methods: This qualitative study, conducted between October and November 2023, employed a phenomenological design. The study involved primary healthcare facilities across diverse urban and rural settings, focusing on healthcare providers, village health teams, and service users. A purposive sampling approach ensured diverse demographics and perspectives. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted, with healthcare providers and service users participating individually, and village health teams engaged in group discussions. Thematic analysis was employed during data analysis. Results: Findings revealed a predominance of females among healthcare providers (18 of 30) and service users (16 of 25), as well as in VHTs. Average ages were 33.4 (healthcare providers), 38.5 (service users), and 35.1 (VHTs). Most healthcare providers (15) held diplomas, while 12 service users and 4 VHTs had certificates. The majority of healthcare providers (n=20) and 4 VHTs had 6–10 years of experience. Thematic analysis highlighted three key themes: benefits of integrated mental health services, implementation challenges, and the role of community engagement and cultural sensitivity. Conclusion: This study contributes valuable insights into the integration of mental health services into HIV clinics in Northern Uganda. The perceived benefits, challenges, and importance of cultural sensitivity and community engagement should guide future interventions, fostering a holistic approach that enhances the overall well-being of individuals living with HIV/AIDS in the region. Policymakers can use this information to advocate for resource allocation, training programs, and policy changes that support the integration of mental health services into HIV clinics in a way that addresses the identified challengesItem Frontline nurses' compassion fatigue and associated predictive factors during the second wave of COVID-19 in Kampala, Uganda(Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 2022) Kabunga, Amir; Okalo, PonsianoAim: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated contextual factors of compassion fatigue in nurses in Kampala.Design: This study employed a cross-sectional study design.Methods: Participants included 395 nurses. They provided details about their demo-graphic information. Stamm's Professional Quality of Life V-5 was used to assess the levels of compassion fatigue. Statistical analysis included Pearson's chi-square and Fischer's exact test, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. A p- value of <.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: Of the total 395 participants, 58.23% (N= 230) were female, 39.76% had a diploma, 47.09% were single, 43.54% had worked for 11–15 years, 54.94% had an ex-posure to COVID-19 cases and 43.54% worked for more than 10 hr a day. 49.11% had high levels of compassion fatigue. The predictors of compassion fatigue were working experience (p- value=<.001), exposure to COVID-19 (p- value=<.019), long working hours (p- value= .003) and remuneration (p- value=<.001).Item Frontline Nurses’ Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Associated Predictive Factors During the Second Wave of COVID-19 in Central, Uganda(Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 2021) Kabunga, Amir; Okalo, PonsianoBackground: Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ugandan healthcare system was already under severe strain due to a lack of human resources, poor working conditions, and poor management. At the center of these challenges are nurses, the backbone of the health system. This study investigated post-traumatic stress disorder and associated predictive factors during the second wave of COVID-19 among frontline nurses in the country. Participants and Methods: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted among 601 nurses between May and June 2021. Post-traumatic stress disorder was assessed using PTSD Checklist-Civilian. The bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the factors predicting PTSD. P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant at 95% CI. Results: The estimated prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder was 65.7%. In the multivariate logistic regression, the predictive factors of PTSD among the study participants were social support (AOR: 0.49; 95% CI: 034–0.60; p ≤ 0.001), fear of getting infected with COVID-19 (AOR: 3.10; 95% CI: 2.17–4.43; p < 0.001) and increased workload (AOR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.16–2.34; p < 0.001). Conclusion: The results of the study highlight the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of front-line nurses. Assessing PTSD among nurses may increase the understanding of COVID-19 induced mental health issues. Identifying the risk factors like lack of social support and heavy workload and providing treatment is essential given that various waves of COVID-19 seem inevitable. Supportive strategies like counseling should be provided to the nurses to prevent or manage PTSD.Item HIV-Related Stigma Among Pregnant Adolescents: A Qualitative Study of Patient Perspectives in Southwestern Uganda(Taylor and Francis, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Nabasirye, Caroline Kambugu; Kigingo, Eustes; Namata, Halimah; Shikanga, Enos Mwirotsi; Udho, Samson; Auma, Anna Grace; Nabaziwa, Jannat; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Musinguzi, Marvin; Okalo, Ponsiano; Acup, WalterBackground: The HIV epidemic disproportionately affects adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa, with adolescent girls facing heightened vulnerability. Despite advancements in antiretroviral therapy, HIV-related stigma remains prevalent, particularly among pregnant adolescents. This qualitative study explores the perspectives of adolescents living with HIV in southwestern Uganda, seeking to understand the nature of HIV-related stigma in this context. Methods: One-on-one narrative interviews were conducted with 28 pregnant adolescents living with HIV aged 14–19 receiving care at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. The qualitative approach allowed for in-depth exploration of participants’ experiences. Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring patterns in the narratives. Results: Five overarching themes emerged from the analysis: Experiences of double stigma, social and cultural influences shaping stigma, healthcare system challenges, psychosocial impacts of stigma, and resilience and coping mechanisms. Double stigma, arising from societal prejudices related to both HIV status and teenage pregnancy, created a complex environment for participants. Despite these challenges, participants exhibited resilience through external support and internal strength. Conclusion: This study reveals the pervasive double stigma experienced by pregnant adolescents living with HIV in southwestern Uganda, driven by societal biases against both HIV status and teenage pregnancy. Urgent targeted interventions are needed to address the intersectionality of stigma, cultural influences, healthcare issues, and psychosocial well-being for the betterment of this vulnerable population.Item Landslide disasters in eastern Uganda: post‑traumatic stress disorder and its correlates among survivors in Bududa district(BMC Psychology, 2022) Kabunga, Amir; Okalo, Ponsiano; Nalwoga, Viola; Apili, BrendaBackground: Post-traumatic stress disorder is the commonly reported psychiatric morbidity among the survivors of natural disasters. However, its prevalence particularly in Bududa, Eastern Uganda is largely unknown. Aims and objectives: To assess the prevalence and correlates of post-traumatic stress disorder among Bududa landslide survivors. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 587 participants. The study setting was the Bududa district, with a multistage sampling method. Pre-tested, administered interviewer PTSD Checklist– civilian version was used as screening tools between 4th and April 29th 2022. Data were analyzed using descriptive and binary logistic approaches at a 5% level of significance. Results: Of the study participants, 276 (46.8%) had PTSD symptoms. Among the respondents, 250 (42.6%) were in the age range of 40 and above, 396 (67.3%) were female, 284 (48.4%) had no formal education, and 333 (56.7%) were married. Results showed that male gender (AOR: 0.47; 95% CI 0.31–0.73; p = 0.001), widowhood (AOR: 0.44; 95% CI 0.21–0.94; p = 0.034), lack of counseling (AOR: 0.44; 95% CI 0.21–0.94; p = 0.001), and duration since the landslide (AOR: 0.35; 95% CI 0.23–0.52; p = 0.001) were associated with an increased likelihood of screening for PTSD in landslide survivors. Conclusion: Landslides pose significant effects on the mental health of survivors. In the present study, the extent of PTSD among survivors is substantially high. male gender,, widowhood, lack of counselling, low social support, and duration since the landslide were significantly associated with PTSD. Effective screening and awareness programs among survivors should be strengthened for the prevention and treatment of psychiatric morbidity among the survivors of landslides.Item Predictors of Unintended Pregnancy Among Adolescent Girls During the Second Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic in Oyam District in Northern Uganda(Open Access Journal of Contraception, 2023) Okalo, Ponsiano; Arach, Anna Agnes; Apili, Brenda; Oyat, Jimmy; Halima, Namata; Kabunga, AmirBackground: In Uganda, unintended pregnancies are responsible for one in three births with detrimental consequences, a situation that worsened during COVID-19. Thus, the present examined unplanned pregnancy and its associated risks in Oyam district, northern Uganda during the COVID-19 epidemic. Methods and Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional study among adolescent girls aged 15–19 years who had a pregnancy during the second phase of COVID-19 in Oyam district, northern Uganda in November 2022. A consecutive method was employed to recruit the participants attending health facilities. A structured questionnaire was utilized to collect data. For data analysis, both bivariate and multivariable regression methods with adjusted odds ratio and 95% CI were used. A p-value of 0.05 was used to determine the significance level. Results: Of the total respondents, 292 (69.5%) were aged between 18 and 19 years of age, 295 (70.2%) lived in rural areas, and 222 (52.9%) had no formal education. The results also show that 293 (69.8%) of the respondents had unintended pregnancies during COVID-19. The results indicate that participants who lacked knowledge of the ovulation period (AOR: 0.242; 95% CI: 0156–0376; P<0.001), sex education during COVID-19 (AOR: 0.563; 95% CI:: 0.365–0.869; P=0.024) and lacked the freedom to discuss family planning-related issues with family members during COVID-19 (AOR: 0.228; 95% CI: 0.138–0.376; P<0.001) were more likely to have an unintended pregnancy compared to their counterparts. Conclusion: Our study shows that unwanted pregnancies among adolescent girls remain a public health issue in Oyam district with more than two-thirds of adolescents having unwanted pregnancies during the crisis of COVID-19. The major correlates of unwanted pregnancies among adolescent girls during COVID-19 pandemic were inadequate knowledge of the ovulation period, sex education, and lack of freedom to discuss family planning-related issues with family members. There is a need to prioritize interventions, especially in rural settings. Sex education to improve contraceptive use and delay sexual debut. In light of the possibility that social and cultural norms in the Oyam district prohibit parents and children from discussing sexual subjects, it is crucial to promote sexual health education through the mass media, including newspapers, television, radio, and social media. Keywords: adolescents, COVID-19, crisis, unintended pregnancyItem Prevalence and predictors of burnout among nurses during COVID-19: a cross-sectional study in hospitals in central Uganda(BMJ Open, 2021) Kabunga, Amir; Okalo, PonsianoObjective To determine the prevalence of burnout and associated factors among nurses during COVID-19 in central Uganda. Design A cross-sectional design. Setting Nurse from one referral and four general hospitals. These were reception centres and cared for patients with COVID-19 in central Uganda. Participants 395 nurses. Main outcome measures Burnout scores. Results Of the total 395 participants, 65.1% (n=257) were female; 40% (n=158) had a diploma; 47.1% (n=186) were single; and 39.2% (n=155) had worked for 11–15 years. The results show that 40% (n=158), 41.77% (n=165) and 18.23% (n=77) reported high, average and low levels of burnout, respectively. The results show that the predictors of nurses’ burnout were personal protective equipment (PPE) (OR: 7.1, 95% CI 4.08 to 12.31) and increased workload (OR 4.3, 95% CI 2.43 to 7.93). Conclusion This study of nurses working in hospitals dealing with patients with COVID-19 in central Uganda reported high rates of burnout, and it was associated with PPE and workload. Interventions like contracting new nurses to reduce workload, the WHO guidelines on PPE, adjusting working hours and ensuring hours of effective rest should be adapted.Item Prevalence of and institutional factors associated with depression among undergraduate students at Gulu University(Insights Depress Anxiety, 2022) Anyayo, Lucas Goodgame; Kabunga, Amir; Okalo, Ponsiano; Apili, Brenda; Nalwoga, ViolaBackground: Many institutional factors predispose University students to mental health issues, including depression. However, with no central database for depression in Uganda, literature on depression and associated institutional factors among undergraduate students is scarce. This study examined the prevalence of and institutional factors associated with depression among undergraduate students at Gulu University. Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey among 452 undergraduate students at Gulu University in the academic year 2018/2019 in February and March 2019. A stratifi ed simple random sampling was used to identify the participants. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Descriptive statistics, including mean and frequency, were used. We conducted a bivariate analysis to determine the association between variables employing Pearson’s chi-square test or Fischer’s exact test. We conducted a multivariate analysis with factors that had signifi cant P-values of less than 0.05. Results: The average age of the respondents was 22.4 (SD - 2.4), more than half (53.1%) were male and 38.50% were in the second year. The results show that 31.19% reported depression. After controlling for age and sex, the results showed that there was a statistically signifi cant correlation between depression and faculty (aOR - 1.15), year of study (aOR - 0.77), happiness with the course (aOR - 0-0.49), satisfaction with academic performance (aOR - 0.45), and satisfaction with academic quality (aOR - 0.61). The results indicated that the predictors of depression among undergraduate students were faculty, year of study, satisfaction with academic performance, and satisfaction with academic quality. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of Gulu University undergraduate students reported high levels of depression. The results, therefore, showed that depression in undergraduate students is an identifi able disorder that needs diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Faculty, year of study, satisfaction with academic performance, satisfaction with academic quality were predictors of depression. Thus there is an urgent need for counseling, psychoeducation, and preventive mental health services as an essential part of the university setup.Item A Qualitative Exploration of Teachers’ Experiences with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Autism Centers in Central Uganda(Contemporary School Psychology, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Namata, Halima; Okalo, Ponsiano; Kigongo, Eustes; Shikanga, Enos MwirotsiWhile autism has received attention in education research, it is notable that teachers of children with autism are under- researched, especially in the Ugandan context. This phenomenological qualitative study explored the experiences of teach- ers supporting children with ASD in central Uganda. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), interviews were conducted with ten teachers from selected autism centers in Kampala. Data collection involved open-ended questions exploring teaching practices, challenges, and personal experiences. Analysis followed the seven-stage IPA process, ensur- ing a thorough exploration of themes. Four main themes emerged: challenges in teaching children with ASD, stigma and discrimination, emotional impact on teachers, and the debate between pharmacological and non-pharmacological interven- tions. Teachers expressed difficulties in recognizing ASD, lack of specialized training and resources, and the emotional toll of their work. Stigma and discrimination were pervasive, affecting both students and teachers. Teachers favored holistic approaches over medication, emphasizing the importance of supportive environments. Despite the emotional toll, teachers also acknowledge the transformative impact on their personal growth, fostering patience and empathy. Teachers in central Uganda face significant challenges in supporting children with ASD, including stigma, resource limitations, and emotional strain. Tailored interventions addressing these challenges are essential for improving outcomes for students with autism. Holistic approaches emphasizing support and understanding should be prioritized over pharmacological interventions, aligning with cultural and contextual needs.Item Qualitative study on stigma as a barrier to emergency contraceptive pill use among university students in the Lango subregion, Uganda(BMJ Open, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Kigongo, Eustes; Acanga, Alfred; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Auma, Anna Grace; Musinguzi, Marvin; Kambugu, Caroline Nabasirye; Okalo, Ponsiano; Akello, Judith Abal; Namata, Halimah; Mwesigwa, DavidObjective The aim of the current study was twofold: to understand the nature and extent of stigma and to learn the reasons behind the decision not to use emergency contraceptive pills among university students in the Lango subregion of Uganda. Design An exploratory qualitative study design. Setting The study was carried out among university students in Lango subregion of Uganda. Participants 40 female university students across four universities. Main outcome measures Stigma. Results Participants (n=40) aged 19–26 exhibited generally positive attitudes towards emergency contraceptive pills, recognising them as empowering and essential. Stigma, however, emerged as a substantial barrier manifested in societal judgements and negative perceptions. Themes included the positive attitude towards emergency contraceptive pills, perceptions of peers and the general public, and perceptions of health service providers. Conclusion Stigma significantly impedes emergency contraceptive pill use among university students in the Lango subregion, Uganda. Positive attitudes towards the pills contrast with societal judgements and provider stigmatisation. Tailored interventions addressing knowledge gaps, societal perceptions and healthcare system challenges are crucial for improving emergency contraceptive pill acceptability and utilisation among university students.Item A systematic review and meta-analysis of compassion fatigue among healthcare professionals before and during COVID-19 in Sub-Saharan Africa(PLOS Glob Public Health, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Kigongo, Eustes; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Udho, Samson; Musinguzi, Marvin; Acup, Walter; Auma, Anna Grace; Akello, Anne Ruth; Okalo, Ponsiano; Nabaziwa, Jannat; Shikanga, Enos MwirotsiCompassion fatigue is a significant concern globally, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing challenges, placing unprecedented strain on healthcare professionals. This study systematically estimated the prevalence of compassion fatigue among healthcare professionals before and during COVID-19 in SubSaharan Africa. A systematic review was conducted using keywords in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and grey literature, covering all literature published between 2012 and December 30, 2023. The search team independently conducted study selection, quality assessments, data extractions, and analysis of all included studies. The systematic review, reported following PRISMA guidelines, included 11 studies. The results show that the pooled overall prevalence of compassion fatigue in Sub-Saharan Africa was 70% (95% CI: 57–82, I 2 = 88.37%). The highest prevalence was found in Eastern Africa at 74% (95% CI: 55–93, I 2 = 94.40%), compared to 64% in Southern Africa (95% CI: 49–79, I 2 = 59.01%). Nurses reported the highest rates of compassion fatigue at 80% (95% CI: 57–100, I 2 = 34.77%), followed by general healthcare professionals at 59% (95% CI: 22–97, I 2 = 94.11%) and nursing students at 50% (95% CI: 35–64, I 2 = 0.00%). Before COVID-19, the overall prevalence of compassion fatigue was 66% (95% CI: 41–91, I 2 = 27%). During COVID-19, this increased to 74% (95% CI: 63–85, I 2 = 88.73%). Our results indicate that nearly 3 in 4 healthcare professionals in Sub-Saharan Africa experience compassion fatigue, and this prevalence increased due to the pandemic. The high prevalence underscores the importance of addressing and mitigating compassion fatigue to support the mental health and emotional well-being of healthcare professionals dedicated to helping others in challenging circumstances.