Managing Director of Supreme Healthcare and Management Services, Patience Osekre, has called for the establishment of a comprehensive framework that prioritizes mental health in Ghana.She emphasized that such an initiative would enhance care for emotional, psychological, and mental health, placing them on equal footing with physical health in the country.

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Speaking at the 5th annual Employee Assistance Program Africa Summit, Osekre also urged the government and all relevant stakeholders to collaborate in fostering a healthier population, which is crucial for sustaining the nation's socio-economic development.“I envision a Ghana where mental health advocacy involves not only healthcare professionals, but the government, politicians, and community leaders.

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Mental capital, our cognitive and emotional resources is the cornerstone of socio-economic development. Without it, our productivity and growth stagnate.“I have lived and worked in the UK for years, where mental health support is embedded in every organisation.

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This integration has brought the Western world tremendous advancement, and Ghana can follow a similar path if we shift our mindset and prioritize mental health resources,” she stated.Madam Osekre encouraged the public to prioritize their mental health and seek professional help if they notice symptoms affecting their well-being.

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She said, “Just as we see a doctor when we are physically unwell, we need to adopt the same urgency for mental health care. Struggling emotionally is part of life, not a sign of weakness. And when we are overwhelmed and hitting rock bottom, that is when it is crucial to reach out and seek professional support.”“For too long, these issues have been brushed under the carpet or excused with tradition.

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While I respect tradition, we must recognise when we need a confidential outlet to express our emotional challenges.“It is vital for everyone including myself as a trained psychotherapist to have that space when dealing with difficult times”, she further said.

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The Deputy British High Commissioner to Ghana, Keith McMahon MBE emphasised the importance of incorporating mental health into societal norms and lauded the interest in the mental well-being of Ghanaians by the participants.“Today’s gathering demonstrates how critical mental health is to communities, employers, and society as a whole.

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The large turnout of CEOs, government representatives, and health professionals reflects a collective commitment to mental well-being in our society”, Mr. McMahon observed.He stressed the UK’s commitment to supporting Ghana with the requisite resources to improve on the mental well-being of its citizens.“The UK is committed to continuing its support alongside the Ghanaian government in enhancing mental health care for all”, he said.

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The EAP Africa Summit, launched four years ago, has grown into a key platform for promoting employee well-being and organizational resilience throughout Africa.The 2024 event brought together industry leaders, diplomats, public service officials, healthcare professionals, and mental health experts. It highlights the continent’s commitment to employee assistance programs (EAPs) and prioritizing mental health in the workplace.

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In alignment with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)—the summit stresses the essential role of mental health in sustainable development.As a Pan-African gathering, the summit is advancing a transformative agenda to place mental health at the forefront of workplaces and communities.

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Leading figures from various sectors are advocating for its significance, with Ghana positioned to set an example for the continent by recognizing mental capital as vital as physical infrastructure in achieving lasting socio-economic growth.The EAP Africa Summit has reinforced that mental health is not only a personal concern but a crucial driver of national development.

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