By Rukayatu Musah & Rachel Quartey
Vice President, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening mental health care across the country.
Speaking on her behalf at the launch of 2025 Mental Health Awareness Month in Accra, Policy Adviser at the Office of the Vice President, Mr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, reiterated government’s readiness to enhance mental health infrastructure, expand community-based services, and support the work of the Mental Health Authority throughout the country. He said that lasting progress will depend on a cultural shift nationwide.
This year’s Mental Health Awareness Month, also known as Purple Month, was launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Mental Health Authority. The theme for this year is “Mental Wellness: My Voice Matters.”
The Month of May will be dedicated to raising awareness, amplifying stakeholder voices, and issuing a strong national call to end stigma and make mental health a visible and urgent priority for all.
Mr. Ofosu Ampofo highlighted a concerning rise in mental health conditions over the past two years, noting that reported cases of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders have increased by more than 20%. “Mental illness does not discriminate. It affects people of all backgrounds, and this truth must move us to action—not fear,” he noted. The government, he assured, is working to improve mental health infrastructure, expand community-based services, and support the Mental Health Authority.”
But he was clear that progress depends on a nationwide cultural shift. “We must build a society where seeking help is a sign of courage, not shame. Every Ghanaian deserves to live with peace of mind and access to support.”
Mr. Ofosu Ampofo encouraged all citizens to use their voices and create inclusive, supportive communities. “Let us be the generation that breaks the stigma, that prioritizes mental wellness, and that affirms every individual’s right to live a life of dignity, hope, and support.”
Minister for Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh outlined initiatives the government will undertake to build a more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable mental health system.
“Mental health services will be integrated into Primary Health Care, making support more accessible at the community level. A modern mental health hospital is to be built in northern Ghana, alongside refurbishments of existing facilities,” the Health Minister said.
He further stated that “the Accra and Pantang Psychiatric Hospitals will receive better resources to enhance service delivery, the Mental Health Authority Act will be reviewed to improve recruitment and retention of Community Mental Health Officers, and mental health hotlines under the NHIS framework will be established to offer urgent support and e-counseling at the district level.”
The Chief Executive of the Mental Health Authority, Prof. Pinaman Appau, called on faith leaders, traditional authorities, civil society, media, and everyday Ghanaians to become champions of mental health without judgment or discrimination.
Community events and advocacy initiatives will take place throughout May to emphasize the importance of prioritizing mental health as a central pillar of well-being.
