Kupenda Disability Guidebook
2025
In many low- and middle-income countries, mental health remains one of the most neglected components of healthcare—particularly for children and families affected by disability. In fact, people with disabilities are five times more likely to experience poor mental health than those without disabilities, making targeted support essential. To address this gap, Kuhenza for the Children and Kupenda for the Children have expanded their widely used Disability Guidebook by adding six new sections on mental health conditions: 1) generalized anxiety disorder, 2) post-traumatic stress disorder, 3) obsessive compulsive disorder, 4) reactive attachment disorder, 5) major depression, and 6) schizophrenia.
Each new section includes:
- Simple, jargon-free definitions and symptoms
- Evidence-based interventions tailored for resource-limited settings
- Culturally relevant illustrations and real-life stories
- Guidance for both professional and community-based support
The guidebook was developed with input from mental health professionals, psychologists, and disability advocates to ensure cultural sensitivity and global relevance. It is now helping caregivers and community leaders deliver psychosocial support where formal services are often lacking.
This updated tool is free and open-source, and designed to equip frontline health workers, educators, faith leaders, and advocates with the knowledge they need to identify, understand, and compassionately respond to mental health challenges in their communities.