The head of the Mental Health Authority, Professor Pinaman Appau, has called on people—particularly young individuals—to take actions to look after their mental well-being, gain understanding, and show compassion towards themselves and others.
She is convinced that these straightforward yet impactful actions can assist individuals in becoming more complete, strong, and well-equipped to interact meaningfully with their surroundings.
This communication was conveyed on her behalf by Dr. Nana Yaa Adobia Brown, Technical Director at the Authority, during theDCODED Show on the University of Ghana on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
The gathering was held under theResilient Minds Projecta partnership between the University's Careers and Counselling Directorate and Johnson & Johnson Ghana.
It centered around the theme "Fixing the Pieces: When the Mind Splits," emphasizing the various internal challenges individuals encounter.
The gathering sought to initiate significant discussions on mental health, decrease prejudice, and assist individuals in recognizing the importance of timely assistance and care.
As per Appau, maintaining mental well-being should be considered an essential aspect of daily routine. She mentioned that many individuals are frequently pulled in various directions—attempting to fulfill academic requirements, concerned about their family, or handling personal relationships. These stresses, she explained, can lead people to feel as though their lives are fragmented.
Additionally, she emphasized the effects of mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, stating, "this condition leads individuals to perceive the world in a unique way and may cause them to feel as if their minds are breaking down. However, through support, empathy, and appropriate treatment, people can discover hope and recovery."
She urged everyone to be mindful of signs of stress in themselves and those around them. "We need to learn to recognize early indicators of burnout, depression, and even disorders such as schizophrenia. Being aware enables us to understand when it's the right time to ask for help or offer support to someone else," she stated.
Additionally, she emphasized the importance of empathy—pointing out that each individual has a background that others might not be aware of. "When we react to people with kindness rather than criticism, we create an environment where they can feel secure and valued," she mentioned.
In addition, she urged students and participants to refrain from concealing their difficulties and instead to voice their concerns and seek assistance when necessary. She portrayed healing as a journey that transforms all the fragmented aspects of an individual into something resilient and elegant.
She lauded the Resilient Minds Project and thanked Johnson & Johnson Ghana and the University of Ghanafor their ongoing support. She advocated for additional platforms similar to theDCODED Showto assist young individuals in discussing mental health candidly and truthfully.
Mr. Emmanuel Asante Antwi, the Country Manager of Johnson & Johnson Ghana, mentioned in an interview with the media during the event that the company has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the university to back the Resilient Mind Future Leaders Project.
He stated that the initiative centers around two major objectives: increasing awareness and decreasing stigma. He mentioned that these are the primary obstacles to obtaining mental health services in Ghana.
Although he acknowledged the value of spiritual support, Mr. Antwi emphasized that the initial step should involve consulting qualified mental health professionals who can accurately evaluate the issue. He further mentioned that the collaboration also seeks to educate frontline healthcare workers to offer improved assistance and direction when individuals reach out for help.
"Our objective is to ensure that when an individual enters a hospital or clinic with a mental health issue, the staff are equipped to react appropriately and provide the necessary assistance," he stated.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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