The Mental Health Authority of Ghana has raised alarms over the increasing trend of mental health disorders linked to alcohol and psychoactive substance abuse.
According to the authority’s latest report, 2023 saw 3,765 cases of mental disorders related to alcohol use and 5,554 cases attributed to other psychoactive substances.
Released on June 26, the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the report highlighted a concerning five-year trend of rising mental health issues due to substance abuse.
Data from the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS) indicated a steady increase in cases, from 4,155 in 2019 to 5,554 in 2023, with the most affected age group being 20-34 years.
Alarmingly, even children aged 10-14 years are presenting with conditions related to drug use.
This year’s theme, “Evidence is clear: Invest in prevention,” underscores the authority’s commitment to tackling the challenges and effects of drug abuse in the country.
The authority has partnered with stakeholders to combat the issue through education, publication, and policy advocacy, emphasizing the need for increased investment in prevention and evidence-based interventions.
The report noted that mental disorders due to alcohol and other psychoactive substances consistently rank among the top ten causes of mental health outpatient (OPD) attendance in the country.
The Mental Health Authority is deeply concerned about this growing trend and is actively working to address it through comprehensive preventive measures and strategic partnerships.
