Accra: Mrs. Dorcas Owusu, a mental health nurse at the Salvation Army Clinic, has emphasized the importance of open conversations about mental health to reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek professional support early. She highlighted the silent struggles many face with stress, anxiety, and depression, often exacerbated by misconceptions and discrimination surrounding mental illness.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs. Owusu, in an interview on Thursday as part of Mental Health Month activities, underscored the equal importance of mental well-being alongside physical health. She noted the tendency for individuals to seek medical attention only when conditions become severe, often brought in by family members for treatment.
Mrs. Owusu explained that mental health professionals use the Mental State Examination to assess a person's mental and emotional condition. She emphasized that early professional intervention could save lives, as timely detection and treatment enhance recovery prospects and help individuals resume normal activities.
Misconceptions about mental illness persist, with some viewing it as a curse or punishment, while others remain unaware of the treatability of mental health conditions through professional care. Mrs. Owusu warned that neglecting anxiety and depression could lead to worsening conditions and stressed the importance of compassion, care, and support for those affected.
She also highlighted the impact of social media on mental health, especially among young people who compare their lives to celebrities' extravagant lifestyles, creating pressure and diminishing self-confidence. This comparison may drive youths to make unprepared decisions or pursue unsuited lifestyles.
Mrs. Owusu called on families and communities to actively reduce stigma through education and awareness. She encouraged individuals experiencing emotional distress to seek psychological counseling or confide in someone they trust. With proper medication, counseling, and professional support, recovery is achievable, enabling individuals to regain stability.
She advised families to monitor behavioral changes in loved ones and encourage seeking help at early signs of distress. Mental Health Month, observed in May, aims to promote understanding, compassion, and the prioritization of mental well-being, encouraging self-care, healthy habits, and early intervention.
Mrs. Owusu concluded by affirming that it is acceptable to not feel okay, stressing that mental illness is real and can be effectively treated when identified and addressed early.