BASICNEEDS-GHANA AND MENTAL HEALTH ALLIANCE CALL FOR PRIORITISATION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT SERVICES DURING CATASTROPHES AND EMERGENCIES

As the world marks World Mental Health Day today, the Alliance for Mental Health and Development (Mental Health Alliance) in Ghana, together with BasicNeeds-Ghana, is urging government and stakeholders to prioritize mental health and psychosocial support services, especially during disasters and emergencies.

This year’s global theme, “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” highlights the urgent need to address the mental and emotional wellbeing of people affected by humanitarian crises. It also reinforces the message that Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) are essential components of every emergency response.

Ghana continues to experience various forms of disasters—ranging from perennial floods, droughts, and road accidents to conflicts and explosions—that leave individuals and communities with deep emotional and psychological scars. However, response efforts often focus on physical needs such as shelter, food, and water, while neglecting the invisible toll of trauma, fear, and anxiety.

The Alliance laments that for vulnerable populations—including wom

en, children, persons with disabilities, and those already living with mental health conditions—such crises often worsen their suffering and deepen existing inequalities.

According to the statement, “Without MHPSS, recovery remains incomplete. Families struggle to rebuild, children’s education suffers, and communities remain fragile.” The Alliance stresses that addressing mental health needs is not optional but essential for healing, resilience, and national development.

The Mental Health Alliance is therefore calling on the Government of Ghana to:

Integrate MHPSS into disaster preparedness and emergency response frameworks of NADMO and MMDAs.

Ensure first responders include trained MHPSS experts.

Increase investment in mental health within the national health budget.

Equip frontline workers with psychosocial first aid skills.

Strengthen community-based mental health support systems, including self-help groups.

Intensify public awareness campaigns to combat stigma and affirm that mental health is a vital part of health.

The Alliance notes that although Ghana has made progress through the Mental Health Act, 2012 (Act 846) and the integration of mental health into primary healthcare, significant challenges remain—especially limited funding, urban-centered services, and persistent 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 urging a renewed national commitment to ensuring that mental health care and psychosocial support are fully embedded in Ghana’s disaster and emergency response systems.

Source:Fiilafmonline/Walkiyatu Issahaku