Special Report: ‘Heavy alcohol consumption causes mental illness’ KAMPALA
A SOCIAL event or gathering in Uganda is incomplete without alcohol. Some people claim sipping at least a glass of crude waragi or a cold beer after a hectic day helps them relax and plan for the next day.
In 2005, the World Health Organisation ranked Uganda as the leading consumer of alcohol in the world. Per capita consumption is 19.5 litres, according to the report, closely followed by Luxembourg at 17.54 litres and the Czech Republic at 16.21 litres.
Health experts, however, say excessive consumption of alcohol and abuse of drugs and substances like marijuana have increased the burden of mental illness in Uganda.
One can also develop brain damage in a short period when he /she over drinks.
The Executive Director of Butabika National Psychiatric Referral Hospital, Dr Fred Kigozi, says the majority of patients who go for treatment at various mental health units in the country are alcohol and substance abusers.
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