By Ernest Nutsugah
Accra, Oct. 22, GNA – For the second year running, the National Theatre of Ghana in collaboration with UK-based Creative Theater Practitioner, Tony Cealy, hosted a community drama session to deepen public discourse on mental health.
The interactive session, combined with relatable skits and performances, attracted scores of residents to the Chokor Tea Garden in Accra.
A section of the National Drama Company portrayed real-life scenarios, reflecting themes such as drug abuse, job-related stress, financial constraints, and its possible effects on the mental health of individuals.
Mr Cealy, in an interview, highlighted the importance of dialogue and providing social support for individuals showing signs of mental health issues.
He said the initiative formed part of efforts to normalise mental health discussions in communities, and encourage individuals to seek medical intervention in extreme situations.
Emphasising prevention and support, he expressed concern over the insufficient number of psychiatrists and mental health professionals in the country, and called on stakeholders to intensify training and other support programmes.
“Everybody has some form of mental health issue which may be expressed under different circumstances…we need to invest in activities that improve mental health.
“We should be opening up and talking more about mental health in our communities. I think many people are too ashamed to have that conversation so we need to normalise the conversation, he stated.
Mr Cealy encouraged individuals to frequently engage in creative activities like dance, singing, gardening, and other fun and physical activities which contributed to improved mental health.
Dr Eyram Awusanya, Psychiatric Resident, Pantang Hospital, highlighted forms of mental health distress such as anxiety and depression, and emphasised the need to reduce the stigma around the condition.
She underscored the importance of early mental health care and the importance of community support and encouragement for persons with such difficulties.
“There is a misconception that seeking mental health care or taking medication indicates a hopeless situation but that is not the case…
“If there is a family member or community member going through mental health challenges feel free to bring them to the hospital, especially if you realise talking and encouragement is not helping,” the medical practitioner noted.
She also called for collaboration among professionals and stakeholders to improve mental health care in Ghana.
Madam Pamela Karikari, Senior Performer at the National Theatre, stressed the importance of being each other’s keeper and seeking help before mental health situations worsen.
The partnership includes training of performers, workshops, and engagement with participants at juvenile correction centers to build a long-lasting relationship and contribute to improving mental health awareness.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade