Sunyani: Dr Bae-etelayo Atinga, the Head of Nursing Department at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), has urged Christian families to prioritize the mental health needs of adolescents, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing these critical issues.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Atinga highlighted that faith and professional support can coexist without conflict, urging families not to overlook any persistent changes in their adolescents' mood or behavior. This call to action was prompted by a recent tragic incident involving a level 400 student of UENR who allegedly committed suicide, reportedly due to mental health struggles exacerbated by a lack of familial support.
Speaking at a round table discussion titled 'Your Mental Health' during the 2026 Global Easter Retreat of the Deeper Life Bible Church, Dr Atinga stressed the interconnectedness of physical and emotional health. The retreat, themed 'The Glory of Christ's Resurrection', attracted hundreds of congregants, including youth, children, and adults, who participated in live sermons delivered by Pastor Dr William F Kumuyi from the church headquarters in Nigeria via satellite.
Dr Atinga further noted that close family interactions and attentive listening are crucial for identifying mood and behavioral changes in adolescents that may indicate mental health issues. Professor Emmanuel Amankwaah, a professional counselor and lecturer at UENR, identified withdrawal, irritability, and aggressiveness as signs of adolescent mental health concerns, along with constant sadness, fear, and feelings of isolation.
Prof Amankwaah emphasized that family tensions, parental pressures, grief, and disappointments can significantly impact adolescents' emotional health. He encouraged young people to communicate openly with parents, church leaders, or counselors to find solutions when experiencing emotional difficulties.
Sister Augustina Dede, a Youth Leader and Tutor at Fiapre Notre Damme Senior High School, pointed out that the fear of disappointing families and church leaders often leads teenagers to hypocrisy and exaggerated spirituality in an attempt to appear perfect.
Pastor Edmond Ayamga, the Middle-Belt Zonal Youth Coordinator of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM), affirmed the church's commitment to addressing barriers to the holistic development of youth. He encouraged the youth to maintain their spiritual growth, study the Bible, pray continuously, and focus on their academic pursuits.