14th January 2025 4:55:12 PM
3 mins readThe World Health Organization (WHO) has determined that the Akosombo Dam spillage in October 2023 exposed significant gaps in Ghana's mental health support systems, emphasizing the need for psychological care during public health emergencies.
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The disaster, which led to severe flooding across parts of the Eastern, Volta, and Greater Accra regions, displaced thousands of residents and caused widespread destruction. Beyond the physical damage, the floods triggered profound psychological distress among affected communities, highlighting the urgent need for mental health services.
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In the aftermath, many families were left homeless, losing their possessions and livelihoods. Children faced trauma from losing their sense of safety, while parents battled feelings of helplessness. Health workers, some of whom were also flood victims, struggled to support others while managing their own emotional burdens, according to the WHO.
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Dr. Leveana Gyimah, Technical Officer for Mental Health at WHO, stressed the importance of integrating mental health care into disaster response efforts.
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"Floods and other natural disasters don’t just destroy property—they leave deep emotional scars. The psychological impact can be long-lasting, affecting not just individuals but entire communities. By integrating mental health and psychosocial support into the flood response, we’ve been able to bring relief to those most affected and build the capacity of health workers to address these needs," she stated.
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Recognizing the need for psychosocial support, WHO, with funding from UK in Ghana, collaborated with Ghana Health Services and the Mental Health Authority to provide mental health services to flood victims. The initiative focused on both direct counseling for survivors and capacity-building for health workers to handle trauma cases effectively.
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Among the beneficiaries was Richard Sedem Ahakutor, a mental health nurse from Sogakope, who faced his own mental health challenges during the disaster.
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"The flood was overwhelming. I lost everything, and at the same time, I was expected to help others cope. It became too much to handle. Thanks to the support I received through this intervention, I was able to get back on my feet and continue supporting my community," he shared.
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Dr. Senanu Kwesi Dzokoto, Volta Regional Director of Ghana Health Services, underscored the broader implications of the flood on Ghana's health systems.
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"Emergencies like this expose the gaps in our mental health support systems. WHO’s collaboration with the Mental Health Authority has allowed us to respond effectively to the needs of flood victims, ensuring that both residents and health workers receive the help they deserve. This intervention has been a critical step toward building a more resilient health system," he said.
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To provide comprehensive care, the initiative deployed clinical psychologists and psychiatrists to offer counseling and psychiatric services. Dr. Richard Dei-Asamoa, a clinical psychologist and psychiatrist at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, emphasized the importance of mental health care in disaster situations.
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"Mental health is often overlooked during emergencies, but it is one of the most critical aspects of recovery. People need help to process their grief, anxiety, and trauma. This initiative has demonstrated how integrating mental health and psychosocial support services into disaster response can truly transform lives and communities," he noted.
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The WHO’s intervention has not only provided immediate relief but also strengthened Ghana’s mental health support systems, ensuring lasting benefits for both flood survivors and healthcare providers. The initiative continues to highlight the critical importance of mental health care in disaster response frameworks.
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Last year, the previous government announced plans to construct 2,225 new homes for those affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage but that is yet to be realised.
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Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has initiated legal proceedings against the government to secure compensation for all victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
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