As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Mental Health Unit at Nkwanta St. Joseph Catholic Hospital in the Oti Region has expressed serious concern over the sharp increase in suicide cases across the country.
Recent statistics reveal a concerning trend, with 543 suicide attempts recorded this year, of which 81 were fatal. This marks an increase from 2023, which saw 594 attempts but a lower fatality rate of 44.
These figures have prompted mental health professionals to call for urgent action and heightened awareness surrounding mental health issues.
Mental Health Officer Christiana Maku Ocansey emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to address this growing crisis.
“The rising number of suicide cases reflects underlying mental health challenges faced by many in society,” she stated, highlighting that economic hardship, social isolation, and the stigma surrounding mental health are significant contributing factors.
Ocansey explained that the Mental Health Unit is actively working to provide support and resources to those in need, including community outreach programs focused on public education about mental health. “Creating a supportive environment is essential in preventing further tragedies,” she said.
In addition to community initiatives, the unit is advocating for improved mental health services and resources to ensure care is accessible to all.
Ocansey urged families to avoid seeing mental illness as a spiritual issue by turning solely to prayer camps, but instead to seek medical help and engage in open discussions to reduce the stigma associated with seeking support.
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