New reports confirm that mental health problems are on the rise among Rwandan youth, with social media use, lingering genocide trauma, and academic pressures contributing significantly.
A latest study found that 43% of urban social media-users among youth suffer from severe depression, 38% experience anxiety disorders—and 27% experience deep loneliness, Kwizera Rulinda of Lifeline Rwanda emphasizes
“Negative comments on social media often diminish self-esteem and foster harmful thought patterns.”
In schools and refugee society, UNICEF funded counsellors report the difficulty of having high levels of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Ancille Yabaragiye, trained school counsellor at G.S. Mugombwa, reported
“A harmonious, conflict‑free family environment reduces the likelihood of developing mental health problems.”
The Ministry of Health reports that one in five young adults is affected by mental health issues, yet only about 5.6% access formal care. To respond, Rwanda has launched a national youth-friendly mental health campaign focusing on early prevention, family engagement, and school-based programs. Dr. Darius Gishoma of the Rwanda Biomedical Centre stressed
“A harmonious, conflict‑free family environment reduces the likelihood of developing mental health problems,” said Dr. Darius
The combined impact of peer-support networks, school counsellors who are professionally trained, and energetic national campaigns is a key step toward confronting youth mental health. But specialists point out that sustained funding, broader awareness, and greater access to services, especially in rural areas, are required to address more young people and break the cycle of silence.
