Revolutionizing Mental Healthcare in Ghana

In Accra, mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, contribute significantly to global health challenges, accounting for over 10% of the world’s disease burden. These conditions also cost the global economy a staggering $1 trillion each year. Shockingly, in low- and middle-income countries like Ghana, more than 75% of individuals with mental disorders receive no treatment whatsoever.

Despite the government’s efforts to enhance mental healthcare services in Ghana, substantial gaps persist. Alarmingly, only about 2% of the 2.3 million Ghanaians living with mental health conditions receive proper psychiatric treatment and support, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

To bridge these gaps and improve mental health services, WHO initiated the Director General’s Special Initiative for Mental Health (DG-SIMH). The overarching goal is to ensure that all individuals in selected countries, like Ghana, attain the highest standard of mental health and well-being.

Over a five-year period, with support from the Government of Norway, this initiative aims to enable an additional 100 million people in 12 countries worldwide to access affordable, high-quality mental healthcare.

Prior to its launch in Ghana in July 2022, WHO collaborated with the country to craft a national implementation plan. Additionally, WHO is currently assisting Ghana’s six new regions in developing their regional plans to ensure effective implementation.

Stakeholder involvement is deemed vital in implementing this initiative. Dr. Joana Ansong, WHO’s Noncommunicable Diseases & Risk Factors Officer in Ghana, emphasized the importance of regions developing their strategies to take ownership of the process and foster partnerships for universal mental health coverage.

The implementation phase, set to commence in the third quarter of 2022, is expected to span five years. Its objective is to extend access to high-quality, person-centered mental healthcare to an additional 5.2 million Ghanaians.

The WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health is poised to advance mental health policies, advocacy, and human rights, while also expanding quality interventions and services for individuals grappling with mental health conditions, substance use, and neurological disorders.

For Ghana’s health authorities, this initiative presents a remarkable opportunity to bolster the mental health system and mobilize communities to create an environment free from stigma and abuse against those with mental health conditions.

Dr. Marion Okoh-Owusu, Western North Regional Director of Health, stressed the need for a conducive environment that encourages people with mental disorders to seek help at any healthcare level. He stated, “This special initiative is an opportunity for us to redefine mental healthcare in Ghana.”

Nana Elluo Panyin III, Kyidomhene of Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Area, echoed the significance of traditional leaders in enhancing mental health service delivery in Ghana. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between health authorities and traditional leaders to protect individuals with mental health conditions.

The WHO Special Initiative on Mental Health will build upon the successes of previous mental health interventions, such as the QualityRights Initiative, which aims to enhance care quality and uphold the human rights of individuals living with mental health conditions.

In summary, this initiative is a pivotal step toward revolutionizing mental healthcare in Ghana, addressing the pressing need for accessible and high-quality support for individuals facing mental health challenges.