BasicNeeds-Ghana Calls for Prioritisation of Mental Health Support During Catastrophes and Emergencies
As the world commemorates World Mental Health Day, the Alliance for Mental Health and Development (Mental Health Alliance) in Ghana, in collaboration with BasicNeeds-Ghana, has called on government and stakeholders to prioritise mental health and psychosocial support services, particularly during disasters and emergencies.
This year’s global theme, “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” underscores the urgent need to protect the mental and emotional wellbeing of people affected by humanitarian crises. The theme further emphasises that Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) are essential components of every emergency response.
Ghana continues to face a variety of disasters—including floods, droughts, road accidents, and violent conflicts—that often leave lasting psychological and emotional scars on affected communities. However, response efforts are typically focused on physical needs such as food, water, and shelter, while neglecting the invisible impact of trauma, fear, and anxiety.
The Alliance expressed concern that vulnerable populations—such as women, children, persons with disabilities, and individuals already living with mental health conditions—bear the heaviest burden during such crises.
According to a statement from the group, “Without MHPSS, recovery remains incomplete. Families struggle to rebuild, children’s education suffers, and communities remain fragile.”
The Alliance stressed that addressing mental health is not optional but essential for healing, resilience, and national development.
They are therefore urging the Government of Ghana to:
- Integrate MHPSS into the disaster preparedness and response frameworks of NADMO and the MMDAs;
- Ensure first responders include trained MHPSS experts;
- Increase investment in mental health in the national health budget;
- Equip frontline workers with psychosocial first aid skills;
- Strengthen community-based mental health support systems, including self-help groups; and
- Intensify public education campaigns to combat stigma and promote mental health as an integral part of overall well-being.
The statement also acknowledged Ghana’s progress through the enactment of the Mental Health Act, 2012 (Act 846) and the integration of mental health into primary healthcare. However, it noted that challenges persist, including inadequate funding, urban-centered services, and lingering stigma.
As the world reflects on mental health this year, BasicNeeds-Ghana and the Mental Health Alliance are reminding all stakeholders that “no one should be left behind in times of crisis.” They are calling for renewed national commitment to embed mental health care and psychosocial support within Ghana’s disaster and emergency response systems.
Source: Ibrahim Angaangmeni Alhassan/Zaaghna.com
