Mental health specialists have called on the public to stop stigmatising individuals with mental health conditions and encourage them to seek frequent medical attention.
They emphasised that derogatory labels such as ‘madman’ or ‘abnormal’ contributed to the reluctance of individuals facing mental health challenges to seek treatment.
Mr Che Tsatsu Sorkpor, a Mental Health Practitioner, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that stigmatisation had become a serious issue, and there was an urgent need for the public to change their attitude toward mental health patients.
He said creating a supportive environment was crucial for encouraging early diagnosis and treatment.
At this year’s World Mental Health Day, held on the theme: ‘It is Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace,’ Mr Sorkpor highlighted the need for increased attention to mental well-being, particularly in work environments.
He pointed out that workplace stress and depression are growing concerns that need to be addressed by employers and employees alike.
‘Depression and stress in the workplace are often overlooked, but they have a significant impact on productivity and well-being,’ he said.
Mr Sorkpor urged employers to create a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns, and also encouraged workers to prioritise self-care and mental health awareness.
Additionally, he advised the public to avoid using alcohol or hard drugs as a means of coping with depression or stress.
He called for greater self-awareness and urged families to support their loved ones in seeking professional help when needed.
World Mental Health Day, which is observed annually on October 10, is an initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO) aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting mental health education.
The day serves as a reminder that mental health is an essential part of overall well-being and must be prioritised, especially in environments where stress and mental health challenges often go unnoticed.
This year’s theme underscores the importance of addressing mental health at the workplace, emphasising that employers, co-workers, and organisations need to play an active role in supporting mental health initiatives.
With the rising awareness of mental health issues globally, the call to stop stigma and promote mental well-being is more relevant than ever.
Source: Ghana News Agency