Pantang, Ankaful mental hospitals in ‘crazy’ condition

The state of Ghana’s mental health facilities continues to deteriorate by the day creating doubts if the country and authorities at the helm of affairs really take the issues of mental health seriously.

Images of the Accra, Pantang, Ankaful mental hospitals and posted by a spirited citizen who is appalled by the sorry state of these facilities, has generated a public uproar with sections questioning the commitment of successive governments in dealing with the situation.

Recently rapper Okomfour Kwadee called on government and various stakeholders not to stigmatize against and neglect mental patients in the country.

He wanted the government to lend the needed support to them as they undergo rehabilitation indicating that the fact they have found themselves where they are, is not indicative of the fact they will not revert to their former status.

“We are appealing the government to take mental issues seriously. Most of the time we are stigmatized and neglected. Persons with mental problems are human beings and I will appeal that we help in integrating them into society. Let us focus on the youth against drug abuse especially those on the streets”.

The mental hospitals which are aimed at providing mental health services to patients are in dire need of support as they continue to grapple with limited inflow of income from stakeholders, according Dr. Akwesi Osei Chief Executive Mental Officer of the Mental Health Authority who said it is hindering the facilities from rendering services effectively.

A Facebook user only identified as Aivie Britzny Osae who has been touched by the plight of patients of these facilities said in a post “These are conditions our mental health practitioners are working in… They shouldn’t have to go through these stresses… Our mentally vulnerable shouldn’t be treated worse than livestock… Support FRIENDS IN DEED with mattresses and hygiene products…. Your small donation will go a long way in helping a disadvantaged get better or feel better.”

She is therefore soliciting support from the public to help a worthy course.