Mental Health Challenges Faced by Children with Arthritis in East Africa: A Review

Katu Amina H.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International Uganda

                                                                   ABSTRACT
Arthritis, particularly Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), poses significant physical and psychological challenges to children. In East Africa, the mental health challenges faced by children with arthritis remain largely unaddressed, despite the increasing recognition of the disease’s physical impact. JIA, a chronic autoimmune disorder, leads to joint inflammation, causing pain and disability, but the psychological toll is equally severe, with children often experiencing anxiety, depression, social isolation, and body image issues. The stigma surrounding chronic illnesses in East African communities, coupled with inadequate mental health services, exacerbates these challenges. This review examines the mental health burdens faced by children with JIA in East Africa, exploring the psychological impacts, cultural barriers, and healthcare gaps that hinder proper care. The study emphasizes the need for integrated mental health care into the treatment of JIA and the importance of community awareness and support. By proposing strategies for improving mental health care, the review aims to enhance the well-being of children with arthritis and advocate for a more holistic approach to chronic disease management in the region.

Keywords: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, Mental Health, Children, East Africa, Depression, Anxiety.

CITE AS: Katu Amina H. (2026). Mental Health Challenges Faced by Children with Arthritis in East Africa: A Review. NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES, 7(1):51-55. https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJSES/2026/71.5155