Tema: A medical practitioner has urged citizens to prioritise regular mental health check-ups to enable early detection and management of conditions such as anxiety and depression. Dr Ralph Armah, Medical Director of the Tema General Hospital, emphasized the importance of routine mental health assessments in preventing conditions from worsening and in promoting overall emotional well-being.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Armah made this call during an interview following a stakeholder engagement organised by the Tema Metropolitan Assembly. The interview was conducted in the aftermath of a tragic Skyarrow microlight aircraft crash at Oninku Drive School Park at Site 18 in Tema Community One. Dr Armah highlighted that mental health conditions often develop gradually, with subtle signs that can be easily overlooked.
He pointed out that many mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, are more treatable when detected early. Timely intervention, he noted, could prevent mild symptoms from escalating into severe cases that require intensive care or hospitalisation. Dr Armah also mentioned that poor mental health is closely linked to physical health conditions such as chronic pain, suggesting that managing mental wellness could improve overall health outcomes and longevity.
Dr Armah further explained that many hospitals now have dedicated mental health units, which help to normalise care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking support. He stated, "Regular check-ups allow professionals to tailor treatment plans to an individual's needs and monitor the effectiveness of ongoing care."
To aid in early detection, Dr Armah encouraged individuals to adopt self-monitoring practices such as journaling to identify behavioural changes, including persistent sadness, anxiety, and changes in sleep or appetite.