Prominent gender equality advocate Manuela P. Mulondo has shared a deeply personal story, revealing her struggle with depression — a challenge she says many underestimate.
In a candid reflection, Manuela described how recognizing and admitting she wasn’t okay was the hardest part of her journey.
“Where you start from is accepting that I am not doing well,” she explained. “I refused to accept that I was not doing well until I got into depression.”
Sleepless Nights and Overwhelming Thoughts
At first, Manuela powered through her days, masking the emotional toll she was carrying. But eventually, the weight became unbearable.
“The time came when I couldn’t sleep,” she recounted. “I took three days without sleep. I would question myself — what had fallen me? I had lots of thoughts in my mind and nothing I could accomplish.”
The restless nights and swirling thoughts forced her to confront her mental state, a moment many can relate to but few openly discuss.

A Spiritual Awakening
Amid the chaos, a moment of clarity emerged. Manuela described it as a spiritual awakening, a quiet voice guiding her toward self-awareness and organization.
“God spoke to me,” she said. “Telling me I wasn’t organized and planning.”
It was a turning point — Manuela realized that reclaiming control over her life meant building structure, awareness, and self-discipline.
Using Her Story to Inspire Others
Today, Manuela channels her experience to encourage women and men alike to prioritize mental health.
Her message is simple but powerful: accept when you’re struggling, seek help, and take steps to regain balance.
Manuela’s journey underscores that even those leading social causes and advocating for change are not immune to mental health challenges — and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Final Word
Manuela P. Mulondo’s story is a reminder that mental health struggles can touch anyone, regardless of success or influence. Her openness invites a broader conversation about self-care, awareness, and the importance of emotional support.
💬 Have you faced a similar struggle or helped someone navigate depression? Share your thoughts below and let’s continue the conversation on mental health.