Ghanaians Advised to Stop Stigmatizing Mental Patients

The Director of Migration Unit at the Ministry of Interior reaffirmed the Government of Ghana’s commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of migrants and returnees. Speaking at the World Mental Health Day celebration in Kumasi, Mr. Agyemang emphasized the importance of access to mental health services, particularly in times of crisis.

The celebration’s theme, “Access to Services, Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” highlights the need for mental health support in emergency situations.

 Mr. Agyemang noted that migration can be a powerful force for development, but it also poses unique challenges, including trauma, loss, and the need to rebuild lives.

The Government of Ghana is committed to a humane and inclusive approach to migration management, recognizing the importance of mental health and psychosocial support.

Mr Agyemang disclosed that When we ensure that migrants, returnees, and all community members have access to mental health services, we are not only supporting individuals, we are strengthening the very fabric of our nation.

He noted that Community Leaders are the champions of inclusion and resilience. And by fostering dialogue, organizing activities, and being attentive to those in distress to make a difference every day.

The ATUU project, funded by the European Union and implemented in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), aims to Raise awareness about mental health and psychosocial support in communities with high numbers of returnees.

He expressed the need to Reduce stigma and promote inclusion, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgment. He called for Strengthen community-based support systems, empowering leaders and volunteers to identify needs and offer support.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has launched an initiative to provide mental health and psychosocial support to migrants. According to Dr. Japhet M. Ayele, MHPSS Project Officer at IOM, the initiative is a commitment to ensuring the well-being of migrants, who often experience stress and trauma during their journey.

Dr. Ayele revealed the stress and trauma that migrants often experience, citing changes in environment, culture shock, and separation from loved ones as contributing factors.

According to him, The initiative aims to provide mental health and psychosocial support interventions to migrants, recognizing the importance of addressing their mental health needs.

 Dr. Ayele expressed gratitude to the Ghanaian government for its support and collaboration in implementing the initiative.

He disclosed that the well-being of the migrant is very important, and ensuring that they include mental health and psychosocial support interventions in their programming is crucial.

Alhaji Muhammed Nasir, Ashanti Regional Director of National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) indicated that Mental health issues can affect anyone, and it’s essential that we increase awareness and provide support to those in need.

He reiterated that the initiative is expected to improve the mental health and well-being of migrants in Ghana, while also promoting awareness and understanding of mental health issues in the community.