Two years ago, the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that nearly 2.4 million Ghanaians suffer from mental health conditions.
This revelation that 2.4 million Ghanaians may be dealing with various forms of mental illness is a blatant reminder of the country's growing mental health crisis.
Mental illness affects not only individuals but also families, communities, and the country as a whole.
The consequences of untreated mental health issues are far-reaching, contributing to increased rates of substance abuse, violence and suicide.
In fact, in just the first half of this year, 175 lives were lost to suicide. In 2024, the country recorded 134 deaths by suicide, a 40 per cent increase over 2023.
The world marked World Mental Health Day on Friday, October 10, to serve as a powerful reminder that there is no health without mental health.
This year’s campaign focuses on the urgent need to support the mental health and psychosocial needs of people affected by humanitarian emergencies.
The global theme was “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies".
Mental health conditions affect over one billion people worldwide, causing significant disability, social stigma and economic loss.
The WHO estimates that one in four people will experience a mental health challenge at some point in their lifetime.
This staggering number of people battling mental health demands immediate attention and action from policymakers, health care professionals, and the public.
The stigma surrounding mental illness is a significant barrier to seeking help.
Many Ghanaians view mental health issues as a sign of weakness, spiritual problems or a lack of faith.
This misconception perpetuates the silence, leaving millions to suffer in the shadows.
It is time to shatter this stigma and create a supportive environment that encourages individuals to speak out and seek help without fear of judgment.
We are happy to note that plans are far advanced to include four major mental health conditions on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to make treatment affordable and accessible to all, as announced by the Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Health Authority, Dr Eugene Dordorye, during this year’s celebration at the Ga East Municipal Hospital.
Also, the Mental Health Authority’s work with tele-psychiatry providers and developing digital health applications to extend mental health services to remote areas is remarkable.
The Daily Graphic calls on the government to ensure that mental health services are accessible and affordable for all Ghanaians.
Also, the government should allocate sufficient resources to mental health services and infrastructure.
The Mental Health Act of 2012 (Act 846) creates a Mental Health Authority to oversee the implementation of the Act and ensure the quality of mental healthcare services, and the Mental Health Board needs to ensure that funding allocated is used for the intended purposes.
Additionally, launching nationwide campaigns to educate the public on mental health will help reduce stigma and promote understanding.
This year’s global theme sheds light on a critical issue that demands attention.
In times of crisis, mental health services are often overlooked, leaving vulnerable populations to suffer in silence.
Natural disasters, conflicts and pandemics can have a profound impact on mental health.
The trauma and stress caused by these events can lead to anxiety and depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), loss of livelihoods and other conditions, which may exacerbate mental health issues.
It is, therefore, important to integrate mental health services into emergency response plans.
More importantly, people need to prioritise their own mental health by practising self-care through activities that bring them joy and taking breaks when needed.
It is essential not to hesitate to visit mental health professionals when struggling, as well as to build strong relationships by nurturing relationships with family and friends.
We owe it to ourselves, our families and our communities to prioritise mental health.
We should create a society that supports and empowers individuals to seek help, build resilience, and encourage a culture of understanding and compassion.
