Health professionals from the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and the Ahenema Kokoben Health Centre have organized a mental health education programme for staff of the Atwima Kwanwoma District Assembly, including the District Chief Executive (DCE), as part of efforts to create awareness and deepen public understanding of mental health conditions.
The educational session, led by Dr. Eugene Oppong, a mental health professional from KATH, sought to enlighten staff on the causes, stages, symptoms and treatment of mental health conditions while addressing misconceptions and stigma associated with mental illness.
Speaking during the programme, Dr. Oppong noted that many people still do not understand mental health disorders, leading to fear, discrimination and delayed treatment of affected persons.
According to him, mental health conditions exist in different stages and can affect anyone irrespective of age, gender or social status. He assured participants that many mental health conditions are treatable and manageable when patients receive early medical attention and the necessary support.
He further cautioned against stigmatization and discrimination against persons battling mental health challenges, stressing that such attitudes often discourage victims and their families from seeking professional help.
Dr. Oppong therefore called on the public to report mental health-related cases to health facilities promptly to ensure early diagnosis and treatment.
“The earlier mental health issues are reported to health professionals, the better the chances of recovery and proper management,” he emphasized.
Officials from the Ahenema Kokoben Health Centre also took participants through various signs of mental health disorders, available support systems and the importance of showing empathy and care to persons living with such conditions.
The interactive session gave staff of the Assembly the opportunity to ask questions and seek further clarification on several mental health concerns affecting individuals and communities.
Participants commended the health professionals for the insightful education and described the programme as timely and impactful in helping to improve awareness and understanding of mental health issues within the workplace and society at large.
