By: Clifford Okyere
As the world observes World Mental Health Day today, October 10, 2023, the theme “Mental health is a universal human right” echoes louder than ever.
This poignant theme resonates globally, calling for increased awareness, knowledge, and actions to promote and protect the mental well-being of every individual.
In the heart of this global conversation, Ghana stands as a pivotal player, grappling with its own unique set of challenges regarding mental health.
This article aims to shed light on the importance of prioritizing mental health in Ghana, emphasizing that it is indeed a universal human right that deserves unwavering attention from those in power.
The Landscape of Mental Health in Ghana:
Ghana, like many other nations, has faced a historical stigma surrounding mental health. Traditional beliefs, lack of awareness, and limited resources have contributed to a scenario where mental health concerns are often swept under the rug. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to address mental health issues as a fundamental aspect of public health.
In Ghana, mental health concerns are not isolated incidents; they are woven into the fabric of daily life. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health disorders contribute to a substantial burden in Ghana, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds and this also include the stressors of urbanization, economic hardship, and societal expectations which contributed a toll on the mental well-being of individuals across the nation. Yet, the discourse surrounding mental health often falls to the wayside, overshadowed by more visible health issues.
Mental Health is Universal Human Rights:
World Mental Health Day 2023’s theme calls for mental health to be recognized as a universal human right. This call to action in Ghana translates into a desire for comprehensive mental health policy, improved financing for mental health services, and the removal of stigmas that discourage people from getting treatment.
Ghanaians must recognize that mental health is not a luxury but a fundamental right, and hence essential actions must be taken to ensure that every Ghanaian has access to the help they require, such as:
Access to Quality Mental Health treatment:
A fundamental component of recognizing mental health as a human right is ensuring universal access to mental health treatment. Building a strong mental health infrastructure, educating healthcare professionals, and integrating mental health services within the current healthcare system are all priorities in Ghana. This comprises both urban and rural locations, recognizing the population’s different demands.
Empowering Individuals to Seek treatment:
Seeking treatment for mental health concerns is typically considered as a show of weakness in many communities, including Ghana.
To combat this stigma, public awareness efforts can highlight that seeking help is a sign of strength and courage.
Mental health should be widely discussed in schools, businesses, and households, creating a climate in which people feel safe seeking assistance without fear of being judged.
The Role of Power and Authority:
The power to change attitudes and policies lies in the hands of those who hold influence, and it is their responsibility to ensure that mental health is not just acknowledged but actively safeguarded. Those in positions of power and authority in Ghana must lead the charge in prioritizing mental health. This includes enacting policies that place mental health as center focus and spearheading initiatives that promote mental health awareness, destigmatize seeking help, and provide accessible mental health services.
For real change to occur, a commitment from both the government and citizens is crucial in achieving a wholesome society.
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