From Darkness to Light: My Journey with My Mother’s Mental Health
A montage of Nuwagira (R) and his mother
By Kerebu Nuwagira
Dear Red Pepper Uganda Team,
I’ve written an inspiring article about mental health that I believe would greatly benefit your listeners and readers. It offers hope and encouragement to those struggling with mental health issues and those supporting loved ones with mental health challenges.
Title: From Darkness to Light: My Journey with My Mother’s Mental Health
As I reflect on my childhood, I remember the darkness that filled our home. My mother’s mental health struggles cast a shadow over our lives, leaving me feeling lost and alone. But, as I grew older, I realized that her journey was not just about darkness, but also about the light that ultimately prevailed. My mother’s name is Giradesi Mpakaine.
Growing up with a mentally ill parent was like living in a constant storm. Some days were calm, but others were filled with torrential rains and flashes of lightning. I never knew what would trigger the next episode or how to prepare myself for the aftermath.
But there was a turning point in our journey, a moment when I knew I had to take drastic action to save my mother. It was when I realized she was wandering the streets of our village, leaving home in the morning and returning late at night, hungry and exhausted. She had stopped taking care of herself, refusing to bathe or change her clothes. It was as if she had given up on life.
That’s when I made the difficult decision to bring her to Kampala, to seek help and rehabilitation. My wife, Joy Kyatubikire, a professional nurse, was instrumental in this decision. She saw the toll my mother’s illness was taking on our family and offered her expertise and support. Together, we found a rehabilitation center that could provide my mother with the care she needed.
My wife’s nursing background was invaluable in navigating the healthcare system and ensuring my mother received the best possible care. She accompanied me to doctor’s appointments, asked insightful questions, and helped me understand the treatment options. Her empathy and compassion towards my mother were remarkable, and I am forever grateful for her support.
The transformation was remarkable. With the help of professionals, my mother began to heal. She started taking care of herself again, bathing regularly and wearing clean clothes. She regained her appetite and started eating well. But most importantly, she started to smile again, to laugh and to live.
Rehabilitation was not easy, but it was worth it. My mother learned to manage her symptoms, cope with her struggles, and find joy in the small things. And as she healed, our relationship transformed. We went from living in darkness to walking in the light, together.
If you are struggling with a loved one’s mental health, know that you are not alone. There is hope, there is help, and there is healing. Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask for support, and hold on to love. Remember, mental illness does not define us. We are more than our struggles. We are strong, resilient, and capable of overcoming even the darkest of times.
I hope our story inspires you to hold on to hope, seek help when needed, and never give up on your loved ones with mental health issues.
We currently reside in Gayaza Wakiso District. Our village is Bukiro-Nyongozi-Nyamukana, Ntungamo District.
Email: [email protected]
Contact: 0775143645
Send your opinion, complaint, feedback, and letter to redpeppertips@gmail or call/text / WhatsApp 0777959024. They should not exceed 1000 words.
Anonymous writers must indicate the reason.
About Post Author
