Youth Mental Health Crisis: A Call to Action for Ghana

Ghana’s youth, the backbone of the nation, face a growing mental health crisis that demands urgent attention. Recent insights gathered through a multi-faceted approach, including online discussions, focus group engagements across six districts in Ghana, and social media interactions, have shed light on the critical challenges young people grapple with. These range from pervasive stigma and misconceptions to limited access to support services.

The findings serve as a roadmap for policymakers, community leaders, and youth advocates to collaborate in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for young people to thrive.

Ghana Grows Youth Connect

A panel discussion hosted by Springboard Road Show Foundation under the Ghana Grows Program brought together mental health professionals, advocates, and individuals with lived experiences. The X Space discussion shed light on the critical need to address misconceptions and stigma surrounding mental health in Ghana, focusing on awareness, stigma, and substance abuse.

As the panellists highlighted, mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, encompassing how individuals cope with stress, relate to others, and navigate life’s challenges.

Speaker Samuel Gyando Panti, a licensed clinical psychologist, noted, “Mental health is connected to every aspect of our being. It’s about handling life stresses without losing balance or resorting to harmful coping mechanisms.”

Despite growing awareness, many young people still associate mental health issues with visible distress, such as “madness,” failing to recognize its broader implications. This misconception continues to hinder open dialogue and access to support.

The Weight of Stigma

Stigma emerged as one of the most significant barriers to addressing mental health challenges.

“In our culture, mental health issues are often seen as weakness or spiritual punishment, preventing people from speaking out,” shared John Asogonnde, an entrepreneur and panellist who candidly recounted his struggles with substance abuse.

Social media, while a tool for amplifying mental health awareness, has also perpetuated harmful stereotypes. Edith Naa Okailey Okaitey also known as Madam Mental remarked, “We’ve turned people’s struggles into memes and jokes. This discourages others from seeking help, fearing ridicule or judgment.”

The Substance Abuse Trap

The conversation delved into substance abuse, particularly the misuse of drugs like Tramadol and alcohol among young people. Edith explained the physiological roots of addiction: “The brain is wired to seek rewards. Substances create temporary euphoria, but over time, they trap the individual in a cycle of dependence.”

John recounted his journey: “It started as fun, just drinking with friends. Before I knew it, I was addicted, relying on substances to get through each day. But my family, faith, and a change in my social circle saved me.”

His story served as a reminder that recovery is possible, but accessible support systems and strengthened drug regulations are essential to combat this growing issue.

The accessibility of harmful substances was another focal point. “Policies exist, but enforcement is weak. You can walk into some pharmacies and buy Tramadol without a prescription,” lamented Edith.

John added, “Even marijuana, though illegal, is openly sold in many places. Our systems need to work harder to protect young people.”

Voices from the Communities

Consolidated findings from focus group discussions were conducted across six districts in Ghana, including Effutu Municipality, Sissala East Municipal, Assin Central, Nandom, and Ho Municipality. These engagements provided a grassroots perspective, capturing the diverse experiences and perspectives of young people.

Focus group discussions identified significant gaps in understanding mental health and its implications. Participants described widespread misconceptions, systemic barriers, and a need for targeted interventions to address mental health issues.

A participant from Effutu Municipality stated: “People think you’re only mentally ill when you’re walking naked on the streets.” This view underscores a common stereotype that limits awareness of broader mental health challenges and discourages individuals from seeking support.

In Ho Municipality, a participant shared their experience with depression following the loss of a parent and a romantic partner. They attributed their recovery to peer support, demonstrating the role of community-based mental health systems in addressing emotional challenges.

Participants across the districts called for integrating mental health education into school curriculums. A youth from Effutu Municipality stated: “We are only told to pray when we feel anxious or sad. No one teaches us how to manage these feelings.” This feedback points to the absence of structured mental health education, leaving young people without the tools to manage emotional stress.

Access to mental health services was identified as inadequate, especially in rural areas like Nandom and Sissala East Municipal. A participant from Ho Municipality stated: “If someone is depressed, there’s no one to talk to in my community.” This indicates a need for expanded mental health services and trained professionals in underserved areas.

The Big Question

As part of its efforts to understand youth perspectives on mental health, Ghana Grows also conducted social media research. The question posed was: “What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear ‘Mental Health’?”

The responses reflected a range of emotions and thoughts. One commenter shared: “Madness oooo, yesterday I went through one. I was disappointed, and it really got me. As I am typing, whenever I remember the incident, tears well up in my eyes. It’s not easy. I really felt it yesterday.” This account shows the emotional toll that mental health challenges can have.

Another respondent expressed their perspective in three simple words: “Peace of mind.” This response captures a common desire for mental stability and calm.

Several participants linked mental health to concepts of emotional stability and mental states. One comment summarized it as “maintaining stability,” highlighting the importance of balance in managing mental well-being. Another participant described it as “finding a safe space between stress and anxiety,” emphasizing the struggle to navigate through common stressors. For others, mental health was associated with specific conditions, such as “anxiety and depression,” reflecting a growing awareness of mental health challenges among young people.

Education, the Foundation of Change

Panellists emphasized the need to integrate mental health education into schools. “Mental health awareness should start at the primary level, just like we teach physical health,” said Mr. Panti. He shared examples of schools where well-being departments actively educate students about managing anxiety and building resilience.

Introducing children to these concepts early can normalize conversations and prevent future mental health struggles.

How to Help Someone in Distress

Edith advised that when asked how to support someone in distress, “Empathy is key. Sometimes people just need a safe space to share their struggles without fear of judgment. If you’re unsure, connect them with a professional.”

Mr. Panti added, “Sleep patterns, withdrawal, or excessive negativity can be signs of distress. Identifying these early and offering support can make a big difference.”

Key Recommendations

1. Community Education and Awareness