Mental illness is a state in which one’s mind cannot appropriately think and make rightful decisions that are helpful to himself or herself and the community at large. In Uganda 68% of mental illness cases occur in the age of 14 to 24 years. The purpose of the study was to assess the factors influencing mental illness among youths aged 15 to 35 years in Kakajjo Zone, Kisenyi II Parish, Kampala District. The study used a descriptive cross section study design that employed both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The study involved 36 participants who were obtained by purposive sampling technique who consented and filled the questionnaires. Data was analysed using Microsoft excel and word programmes and was presented in form of figure, tables and narratives. Results of the study showed that majority 66.7% were male, 33.3% were female, 75% were single,72.2% had ever used drugs, 63.9% had long lasting stress and few 22.2% had family history of mental illness. Step parents (52.8%) and authoritarian (58.4%) were the family upbringing that predispose to mental illness. Majority 80.6% were of low social economic status and sound pollution was stated by 80.6% and was mainly caused by road traffic (86.1%). In conclusion environmental factors, gender and family social life had great influence on mental illness. These call for cooperation amongst stakeholders so as to enhance good mental health.

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