Accra, May 24, 2023 – The prevalence of schizophrenia, a mental health disorder, is steadily increasing in Ghana, with a total of 8,446 reported cases as of the end of March this year [2023].
This marks a concerning rise from 19,856 cases in 2020, 20,755 cases in 2021, and 24,790 cases in 2022.
“Despite the fact that there is no cure for schizophrenia, people with the condition have better outcomes when they receive comprehensive management strategies that include medication, psychotherapy, and occupational therapy, among others,” said Estelle Appiah, the Board Chairman of the Mental Health Authority.
She disclosed this information during a press conference held to commemorate World Schizophrenia Day on May 24. The figures were obtained from the District Health Information Management Systems of the Ghana Health Service, indicating the gravity of the situation.
Schizophrenia is a debilitating mental disorder characterized by persistent psychotic symptoms such as auditory and/or visual hallucinations, delusional thinking, dissociation from reality, and disorganized thoughts and behaviour.
It usually begins to manifest when the patients are in their early 20s, although, in rare cases, symptoms can show in early childhood.
Globally, an estimated 24 million people are affected by this disorder, which highlights the urgent need for attention and support for individuals living with schizophrenia.
World Schizophrenia Awareness Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about this mental illness, which affects over 20 million individuals worldwide.
It is highly stigmatized since it is not talked about and lacks accurate representation in the media. This awareness day aims to combat stigma and encourage individuals to seek the resources and support they need.
The theme for this year's celebration is “Celebrating the power of community kindness.” It sheds light on the importance of compassion, understanding, and support within the community for individuals living with schizophrenia.
“Quoting current research, a variety of factors influence a person's manifestation of symptoms of schizophrenia, pointing out that biological and environmental factors are notable, with life's stresses playing a substantial role in the emergence of symptoms,” stated Ms Appiah during the press conference.
The Mental Health Authority is actively working to address this growing challenge.
Their efforts range from policy development to execution, as well as raising public awareness about schizophrenia and other mental health issues. Moreover, they strive to enhance access to care and support for those affected.
Ms Appiah reiterated that the ban on chaining and shackling individuals with mental illness, which has been in place since 2019, remains in force.
She urged the public, development partners, caregivers, community organizations, and other relevant parties to collaborate in removing obstacles and expanding support for those living with schizophrenia.
“We encourage everyone to take a moment to learn more about schizophrenia. Join us in breaking down barriers and creating a world where everyone has access to the care and support they need to live healthy and productive lives,” she said.
Dr Nana Yaa Adobea Brown, the Technical Director of the Mental Health Authority, expressed the belief that by working together, stigmas surrounding mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, can be dismantled.
The collective efforts of society are essential in raising awareness, improving access to mental health services, and ensuring that affected individuals receive the care and support they deserve.
“The MHA believes that by working together, we can dismantle stigmas surrounding mental health conditions and create an environment where individuals living with schizophrenia can thrive.
Our collective efforts are crucial in promoting awareness, improving access to mental health services, and ensuring that those affected receive the care and support they deserve,” said Dr Brown.
Professor Pinaman Appau, the Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Health Authority, emphasized the need for continued vigilance in tackling the challenges hindering progress in schizophrenia management.
These challenges include inadequate funding, brain drain of mental health professionals, persistent stigma and discrimination, as well as the violation of human rights, including chaining and shackling.
“I urge you to join hands with us in celebrating the power of community kindness. Through community initiatives, educational campaigns, and collaborative partnerships, we can build a caring society that provides equitable access to mental health care, employment opportunities, and social support networks,” said Professor Appau.
As we commemorate World Schizophrenia Awareness Day, let us take a moment to learn more about schizophrenia and break down barriers, striving towards a world where everyone has access to the care and support they need to live healthy and productive lives.
