The Mental Health Authority has commended the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) for continuously supporting the institution to bring attention and awareness to mental health issues.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Authority, Dr. Caroline Amissah, said unlike previously, when mental health was given little attention, it is now in the spotlight, resulting in a reduction in stigma.
She was speaking when the church presented GH¢ 200,000 to the Authority at the close of Life Walk, the ICGC’s annual health and fitness event that encourages healthy lifestyles and serves as a platform to impact society.
For the fifth consecutive time, the church chose to support the Mental Health Authority as part of a commitment to help improve conditions at the country’s Psychiatric Hospitals and create awareness to ensure effective management of cases.
The Accra South Regional Overseer of the ICGC, Reverend Anthony Cudjoe, made the presentation to the Authority on behalf of the General Overseer, Pastor Mensa Otabil.
He said the ICGC’s support for mental health is anchored in the understanding that it is an aspect of Ghana’s healthcare system that is underserved and needs the most resources.
Reverend Anthony Cudjoe said Life Walk is more than a fitness and wellness event but an evangelistic and charity event. He reminded the gathering of how Jesus Christ went everywhere doing good.
He posited, “our mandate, and the third strand of our mission, is to influence society positively with the impact of the gospel.”
In her remarks, Dr. Caroline Amissah noted that the collaboration with the ICGC and other partners had led to an increased demand for mental healthcare, with more people now reaching out freely for support when they have issues.
She called on other institutions to emulate the gesture by ICGC to complement the efforts of the state.
This year’s walk began at the Christ Temple East Campus of the church in Teshie with senior officials of the church, including the General Overseer, Pastor Mensa Otabil; his wife, Lady Joy; the General Secretary, Rev. Morris Appiah; the Regional Overseer for Accra North, Rev. Yaw Annor; and various district heads leading the effort.
The 12-kilometre walk took the thousands of participants through some major streets in the Teshie enclave, including Tse Addo and the Military Cemetery.
Officials of the Mental Health Authority, keep-fit lovers, and members of the general public also joined the well-organised walk amidst brass band music and singing by various cheer groups.
