Clearing the path: A call to safeguard Ghana’s streets by addressing homelessness and mental health

Homelessness and untreated mental health conditions are serious issues in Ghana, posing significant threats to public safety and well-being. Recent incidents of violence involving mentally ill individuals highlight the urgent need for comprehensive solutions. This essay calls on the Ghanaian government to take immediate action to address these challenges and protect the nation's citizens.

The Growing Threat

Homeless individuals with untreated mental illnesses often face harsh conditions that worsen their mental health issues. Without access to medical care and social support, these individuals can become a danger to themselves and others. In recent years, Ghana has seen several alarming incidents where mentally ill individuals have attacked civilians. These incidents, occurring in cities like Accra and Kumasi, have resulted in injuries and fatalities, spreading fear and highlighting the critical gaps in our mental health care and social support systems.

Recent Incidents of Violence in 2024

The frequency and severity of attacks by mentally ill individuals have increased, drawing attention to the urgent need for action. Notable incidents in 2024 include:

Accra Market Attack: In March 2024, a mentally ill man attacked several people in a busy Accra market. Armed with a machete, he injured five individuals before being subdued by bystanders. This incident caused widespread panic and highlighted the dangers posed by untreated mental illness in densely populated areas.

Kumasi Bus Terminal Incident: In April 2024, a mentally ill woman at the Kumasi bus terminal assaulted a mother and her child. The unprovoked attack left both victims hospitalized with severe injuries. Witnesses reported that the woman had been living at the terminal for months without receiving any mental health care.

Cape Coast Beach Tragedy: In May 2024, a mentally ill man pushed a tourist off a cliff at a popular beach in Cape Coast. The tourist sustained life-threatening injuries, and the incident negatively impacted tourism in the region. This tragic event underscored the need for mental health interventions in public spaces frequented by locals and visitors alike.

Tema Residential Assault: In January 2024, a homeless man with a known history of mental illness attacked a family in their home in Tema. He entered the house through an open window and injured two family members before being restrained. This incident raised concerns about the safety of residential neighbourhoods and the pressing need for comprehensive mental health services.

Takoradi Street Attack: In February 2024, a mentally ill woman attacked pedestrians on a busy street in Takoradi with a broken bottle, resulting in multiple injuries. This incident emphasized the vulnerability of the public to sudden and violent outbursts by individuals in need of psychiatric care.

Ashaiman Market Incident: In June 2024, a homeless man with untreated schizophrenia set fire to several market stalls in Ashaiman, causing significant property damage and endangering lives. This incident highlighted the potential for property damage and large-scale public safety threats posed by untreated mental illness.

The Contributing Factors

Understanding the factors that contribute to these incidents is crucial for developing effective solutions:

Inadequate Mental Health Services: Ghana's mental health infrastructure is severely under-resourced. Many individuals do not receive the medical attention they need, leading to untreated and worsening symptoms.

Substance Abuse: Homelessness often drives individuals to substance abuse as a means of coping with their harsh reality, further aggravating mental health conditions and leading to aggressive behaviour.

Social Isolation and Stigma: The stigma associated with mental illness and homelessness results in social isolation, depriving individuals of the support networks necessary to manage their conditions.

The Broader Societal Impact

The consequences of untreated mental illness and homelessness extend beyond immediate safety concerns. They have far-reaching implications for society, including:

Economic Costs: Increased healthcare expenses, law enforcement resources, and lost productivity create a significant economic burden. The costs associated with emergency medical care, law enforcement interventions, and the destruction of property are substantial.

Community Disruption: Fear and anxiety stemming from violent incidents disrupt community cohesion and diminish the quality of life for residents. Public spaces become less safe and welcoming, affecting businesses and social interactions.

Perpetuation of Stigma: High-profile violent incidents reinforce negative stereotypes about mentally ill individuals, making it harder to advocate for necessary reforms. This stigma can discourage individuals from seeking help and receiving the care they need.

A Call to Action for the Ghanaian Government

To address these challenges effectively, the Ghanaian government must take a proactive and comprehensive approach. Here are key steps that need to be taken:

Invest in Mental Health Infrastructure: The government must allocate sufficient resources to strengthen the mental health care system. This includes training more mental health professionals, establishing additional mental health facilities, and ensuring the availability of necessary medications and therapies. Funding must be directed toward expanding existing facilities and building new ones to meet the growing demand for services.

Implement Crisis Intervention Programs: Establishing crisis intervention programs can help de-escalate potentially violent situations. Mobile crisis units and emergency hotlines should be set up to provide immediate support to individuals experiencing mental health crises. Training for law enforcement and first responders on how to handle mental health emergencies can also prevent situations from escalating.

Promote Public Awareness and Education: Public education campaigns are essential to reduce stigma and promote understanding of mental health issues. By fostering a more inclusive and supportive society, we can encourage community members to assist rather than ostracize those in need. Schools, workplaces, and community centres should be involved in spreading awareness and providing education on mental health.

Enhance Collaboration Between Stakeholders: Effective solutions require collaboration between the government, NGOs, and community organizations. Joint efforts can provide comprehensive support, including housing, job training, and social services, to help homeless and mentally ill individuals reintegrate into society. Collaborative efforts can ensure that resources are used efficiently and that services are accessible to those in need.

Conduct Research and Data Collection: Ongoing research and data collection are necessary to understand the scope of homelessness and mental health issues in Ghana. This information will inform policy decisions and ensure that interventions are evidence-based and effective. Data on the prevalence of mental illness, patterns of homelessness, and the outcomes of various interventions can guide future strategies.

Develop Education and Employment Programs: Providing education and skills training can help homeless individuals achieve self-sufficiency. Employment programs should be created to offer job opportunities and support reintegration into the workforce. Vocational training and job placement services can help individuals build the skills they need to secure stable employment.

Expand Social Safety Nets: Strengthening social safety nets can provide a more robust support system for vulnerable individuals. This includes improving access to social services, such as housing assistance, food security programs, and healthcare. Ensuring that individuals have access to basic needs can prevent them from falling into homelessness and can support those who are already homeless in finding stability.

Support Families and Caregivers: Providing support to families and caregivers of mentally ill individuals can reduce the burden on these informal support networks and improve outcomes for those with mental health issues. This support can include financial assistance, respite care, and training on how to care for individuals with mental health conditions.

The challenges of homelessness and mental health issues in Ghana are complex and multifaceted, requiring immediate and sustained attention. The recent violent incidents underscore the urgent need for comprehensive mental health care and social support systems.

By investing in mental health infrastructure, implementing crisis intervention programs, promoting public awareness, enhancing collaboration, conducting research, developing education and employment programs, expanding social safety nets, and supporting families and caregivers, the Ghanaian government can create a safer and more inclusive society for all its citizens.

This call to action urges the Ghanaian government to act swiftly and decisively. The time to address these critical issues is now. Together, we can ensure that every Ghanaian, regardless of their mental health status or living situation, receives the care and support they need to lead a safe and dignified life. By addressing the root causes of homelessness and mental illness, we can build a society that values and supports all its members, ensuring a brighter future for everyone.