The Mental Health Authority of Ghana has issued a warning regarding the increasing prevalence of mental health disorders linked to alcohol and psychoactive substance abuse.
In their latest report, the authority revealed that in 2023, there were 3,765 cases of mental disorders attributable to alcohol use and an additional 5,554 cases related to other psychoactive substances. This data, released on June 26 to coincide with the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, highlights a troubling five-year trend of rising mental health challenges due to substance abuse.
According to the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS), cases have escalated steadily from 4,155 in 2019 to 5,554 in 2023, predominantly affecting individuals aged 20–34 years. Alarmingly, children as young as 10–14 years are also showing signs of mental health issues stemming from drug use.
This year’s theme, ‘Evidence is clear: Invest in prevention,’ underscores the authority’s dedication to addressing the pervasive issue of drug abuse in Ghana. They have expressed deep concern over this trend and are collaborating with stakeholders to combat it through education, awareness campaigns, and policy advocacy. There is a pressing need, they emphasize, for increased investment in prevention strategies and evidence-based interventions.
The DHIMS consistently identifies mental disorders linked to alcohol and psychoactive substances as one of the top ten causes of outpatient mental health visits. The authority continues to stress the urgency of addressing these issues comprehensively to mitigate their impact on public health and well-being.
“Data from the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS) has consistently captured mental disorders due to alcohol and other psychoactive disorders among the top ten (10) causes of mental health outpatient (OPD) attendance.
“In 2023, a total of 3,765 cases of mental disorders due to alcohol use were attended to, and 5,554 cases with respect to other psychoactive substance use.
“The 5-year trend of mental disorders due to psychoactive substance use has shown a steady rise in the number of cases from 4,155 in 2019 to 5,554 cases in 2023, with the age range most affected being 20–34 years. It must be noted that children as young as 10–14 years are also presenting with conditions stemming from drug use.”