"The perspective" is privileged to host a brave guest who is here to share her personal journey, through treatment and support and how she has found a way to manage her situation. Her testimony is not just a story of recovery but a message of hope for those who may be struggling in silence.
While it's often believed that mental health is the responsibility of the government or health institutions, true change begins with each of us. By fostering understanding, offering a listening ear, and supporting one another, we become the first line of defense in a society where mental well-being matters.
In this discussion, we explore the power of seeking help, how therapy and medication can transform lives, and what we can each do to uplift one another. Watch the full interview in the video above and witness a story that encourages us all to embrace both strength and compassion.
IGIHE: Welcome to the Perspective. You are brave and thanks for accepting to openly share your story about mental health, something that people often avoid, and yet, it affects so many.
Uwimana: Thank you for having me. But, I was just laughing when you mentioned 'brave.' Honestly, I just see myself as me. I don't feel particularly brave. My journey really began in 2007, though at the time, I didn't even realize I was receiving support for my mental health.
My mother was very ill, and as her only caregiver, I took on a lot. She was often reluctant to take her medication, so one day, I went to the clinic to ask for help in convincing her. Instead, the clinic staff turned their attention to me, noticing the stress I was under.
I remember one lady there who wanted to be friends with me and it was actually her way of offering me psychological support without saying it. She would check on me regularly, asking how I was doing and making sure I had someone to talk to, especially after my mother passed away in 2008.
IGIHE: That must have been an incredibly tough time. When did you realize that you needed support for yourself, outside of what you were getting from friends?
Uwimana: The first real moment came in 2015. I had gone through a difficult breakup with the father of my daughter. It was a shock because I was financially dependent on him, and suddenly, I found myself facing the reality of single motherhood without a job or stable income.
I even remember feeling urges to drink alcoholâ€"something that's not part of who I am. It was like my mind was in chaos, and I realized that I was losing control. I was fortunate enough to have connections with a few psychologists, and I reached out to one of them.
Talking to them was a turning point, and their questions helped me reflect on my own strength and resources.
IGIHE: Seeking help like that can be overwhelming. Many people struggle with the idea. How did you feel taking that first step?
Uwimana: It was challenging but very eye-opening. People often think of mental health treatment as medication, but in 2015, I didn't take any. Instead, it was about conversations and finding answers within myself.
The psychologist asked me questions that helped me reflect, like when I felt ashamed or lost after the breakup, she reminded me that I hadn't actually 'lost' anything. She reframed things, showing me that I still had value, dignity, and my own life to build. That insight gave me back my strength and helped me move forward with hope.
IGIHE: Mental health issues often carry stigma. How have you coped with the stigma, and what advice would you give to people who might be going through something similar?
Uwimana: There is definitely stigma, especially in our society where people feel they need to handle everything on their own. But I've learned that silence can be dangerous. By staying true to myself and being open about my experiences, I hope to encourage others to seek help.
I now create mental health awareness content on platforms like YouTube. I want people to know that they don't have to face these challenges alone and that vulnerability is not a weakness.
IGIHE: It's wonderful that you're leading by example. How do you think family and friends can be supportive in a campaign like yours?
Uwimana: It really comes down to understanding and listening without judgment. Often, when people open up, they're told that their problems aren't serious, or others may downplay their struggles.
Family and friends can help by simply listening and showing empathy. If someone trusts you with their feelings, it's important to respect that and be there for them without minimizing what they're going through.
IGIHE: As a society, what steps do you think we can take to better address mental health challenges?
Uwimana: Education is crucial. I think organizations like the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) could play a bigger role in educating the public about mental health. People need to understand what mental health is and how it can affect anyone.
Knowing how to recognize the signs and find help is essential. Education can empower individuals to seek support and reduce the stigma around these issues.
IGIHE: That's such an important point. What has been the most valuable lesson you've learned from your journey, and how has it changed your perspective towards life?
Uwimana: I've learned not to panic over every problem. Life is full of ups and downs, and I can't control everything. Now, I try to relax even during tough times, understanding that every challenge passes eventually.
Stressing out doesn't solve problems, and I don't have to face everything alone. For example, last year, I went through a tough financial issue with a bank loan. I had no income for several months, and after all the stressing and worrying, I realized that the only thing I could do was stay calm and find solutions without letting stress consume me.
IGIHE: Your resilience is inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing your story. Your courage to speak openly about mental health will surely help others facing similar challenges.
Uwimana: Thank you for giving me the chance to share. I hope that by speaking out, others will feel encouraged to seek support and know they're not alone in this journey.
Sam K Nkurunziza
