The Mental Health Authority has announced plans to establish additional mental health facilities in the northern regions of Ghana. This development is part of the government’s ongoing effort to improve access to mental health care, particularly in underserved areas of the country.
New Psychiatric Hospitals Under Construction
The announcement was made during the 2025 edition of the Dcoded Show, organised by the University of Ghana’s Career and Counselling Centre in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson. The event, themed “Fixing the Pieces When the Mind Splits,” focused on raising awareness about schizophrenia and advocating for better mental health care.
Dr. Josephine Stiles Darko, Deputy Head of Communications at the Mental Health Authority, revealed that two new psychiatric hospitals are currently under construction, explicitly targeting the northern regions of Ghana. These facilities will be part of a broader initiative to expand mental health services, ensuring that communities across the northern regions have access to specialised care.
Integrating Mental Health into District Hospitals
In addition to building new facilities, Dr. Darko emphasised the importance of increasing the number of mental health specialists. The government is working on integrating mental health care into district hospitals, ensuring that all doctors receive psychiatric training as part of their medical education. This will enable them to better identify and treat mental health conditions at the local level.
Training and Community Outreach
Alongside the infrastructure expansion, the Mental Health Authority is actively training healthcare workers and conducting community mental health outreach programs. These efforts aim to promote early detection and treatment of mental health conditions, ensuring that individuals receive the care they need before issues become more severe.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Mental Health Improvement
The establishment of additional mental health facilities and the integration of mental health services into district hospitals are critical steps toward improving mental health care in Northern Ghana. With continued training for health workers and expanded outreach efforts, the government is taking significant strides to ensure that mental health services are accessible to all, particularly in underserved regions.
