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Over 650,000 Ghanaians suffer severe mental disorder,depression
Over 650,000 people living in Ghana are suffering from severe mental disorder, with over two million, others suffering from moderate to mild mental disorder.
This was exclusively revealed to The Spectator by a team of doctors and experts in mental health, at the ‘Depression on the Mental Health Ladder: HealthCare Neglect and the Economic Cost’ symposium organised by the Rotary Club of Accra South, in Accra last week.
She estimated that, 13 per cent of Ghana’s population suffer from mental disorder.
According to Dr Charlotte Kwakye-Nuako, a Clinical Psychologist, depression is a major risk factor associated with mental health disorder which was characterised by feelings of severe despondency and dejection.
The Psychology expert indicated that it was a profoundly serious mental problem which could lead to suicide in most serious forms.
According to her, the number of people in Ghana projected to receive treatment for depression within the cases identified was estimated to be about 13,202.
“It is projected that about 30 per cent of those who received treatment would remain on antidepressants for life,” she underscored.
She said mental health problems are a major contributor to the global disease burden which is associated with premature mortality and generates substantial costs to the economy.
Mr Gerry Van Dyck, President of the Rotary Club of Accra South said it was important to pay attention and intensify awareness on the often overlooked aspect of mental health.
The President of the Rotary Club of Accra South lamented the infrastructural challenge associated with mental health care in Ghana.
He bemoaned that, there are only three mental hospitals in Ghana, two of which are in Accra and its environs, and the other located in the Central Region of Ghana.
“It is with this in mind, that the Rotary Club of Accra South with support from other partners has decided to construct a Psychological Health Resource Centre,” he reiterated.
He indicate that, when completed, the first phase would serve as a 24-hour contact point for psychologically distressed person, not only in Accra but all over the country by improving responses in emergency cases.
Adding that, the centre would also create an accessible point for referrals to treatment and other help centres.
The President further appealed to organisations to help execute the project.
By Alfred Nii Arday Ankrah
The Heartfelt Philanthropy Network and fellows of Elevate Africa Fellowship have visited the Street Academy in Accra to support its efforts to improve the welfare and development of children.
The visit formed part of efforts by the organisations to give back to the community and promote opportunities for children through education, healthcare and other social support programmes.
Ms Yvonne Abba-Opoku, Founder and Director of the Heartfelt Philanthropy Network, said the organisation had supported the Street Academy since 2019 because of its commitment to serving vulnerable children. Read More.
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Alberta Afia Asomaniwa Akoto, popularly known as “Landlady,” has declared her intention to contest as the Parliamentary Candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Okaikwei North Constituency.
In a statement shared on Friday, Ms. Akoto said Okaikwei North has been her home for more than 40 years, where she has lived among the people, shared in their joys and challenges, and built lasting connections with the community.
“I am in the race because I believe our community deserves dedicated service, a listening ear and a strong voice. I am ready to work with you, listen to your concerns and help build a brighter future for Okaikwei North,” she said.
“Dear Okaikwei North, your girl is here one of your own, ready to serve,” she added.
Ms. Akoto said service is not just a responsibility but a commitment to the people and the community they call home.
Having dedicated herself to serving and supporting the people of the constituency, she said she wishes to continue the journey of service with renewed commitment, greater dedication and a stronger vision.
Her vision, she noted, is to build on the progress made, listen to the concerns of the people, empower the youth, support women, create opportunities and champion development that benefits every community in the constituency.
“I believe that together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous and inclusive Okaikwei North,” she added.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
