The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has recorded a significant increase in mental health disorders among its personnel, with an average of 1,300 cases per year since 2021. According to statistics, alcohol use disorder is the most prevalent, accounting for 70% of the cases, with male officers being the majority affected.
The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Major General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, revealed the statistics while addressing a conference to mark the end of the maiden edition of the GAF Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week in Accra. The conference aimed to promote the mental health of men in a gender-sensitive armed forces.
Maj. Gen. Oppong-Peprah expressed concern over the rising cases of mental health disorders, which he attributed to the stigma associated with seeking help. He noted that many personnel struggle with mental health issues in silence, leading to suicidal tendencies and actual suicide.
The World Health Organisation reports that men are more than twice as likely to die by suicide than women globally. Despite this, men have lower reported cases of depression, a significant suicidal risk factor. Maj. Gen. Oppong-Peprah blamed gender roles and societal expectations for the disparity.
The CDS urged personnel to seek help without fear or favour, emphasizing the importance of speaking out and expressing emotions freely. He encouraged them to avoid substance abuse, excessive alcohol consumption, gambling, and unnecessary spending, and to prioritize healthy living.
Anita Paddy, a senior clinical health psychologist at the 37 Military Hospital, noted that globally, one in four persons experiences mental health issues or suffers from a mental condition at some point. Only one-third of those affected seek help, she added.
Ms. Paddy emphasized the importance of coping with adverse life events, functionality in roles, interpersonal relationships, and having a sound mind in a sound body as key components of mental health. She encouraged personnel to adopt healthy lifestyles, including good eating habits, sufficient rest, and engaging in hobbies and funfair activities.
Personnel were also urged to discuss their feelings with colleagues or seek professional advice before taking harmful actions. The CDS directed the Department of Medical Services to embark on a vigorous drive to reduce mental health cases within the forces.
The conference aimed to raise awareness about mental health issues and encourage personnel to seek help without fear of stigma. The GAF hopes to create a supportive environment where personnel can openly discuss their mental health challenges. By addressing mental health issues, the GAF aims to improve the overall well-being of its personnel, enhance their performance, and reduce the risk of suicide and other harmful behaviors.
