Ghana Marks World Mental Health Month with a Call to Prioritize Maternal Mental Health

Accra, Ghana – As the world observes Mental Health Awareness Month, Ghana joins the global community in recognizing the importance of mental health, particularly maternal mental health, during the perinatal period. Designated as Purple Month in Ghana, this observance aims to provide hope, support, and encouragement to those struggling with mental health disorders.

Maternal Mental Health (MMH) is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a state of well-being in which a mother, during the perinatal period (pregnancy and up to one year after birth), realizes her abilities, copes with normal life stresses, works productively, and contributes to her community. However, despite its significance, MMH remains an overlooked aspect of maternal care.

Statistics from the WHO reveal that approximately 20% (1 in 5) of pregnant women worldwide experience maternal mental health issues, with the prevalence increasing by 13% among women who have just given birth. Shockingly, only 10% of those affected seek help in developing countries like Ghana.

Common Maternal Mental Health conditions include:

• Baby/Postpartum Blues: Mood swings, tearfulness, and anxiety shortly after childbirth, which usually resolve within a few weeks.
• Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest, requiring professional support and treatment.
• Anxiety: Excessive worrying about the baby or the mother.
• Postpartum Psychosis: A rare but severe condition characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized behavior, requiring immediate medical and mental health treatment.

The causes of MMH issues range from biological to socioeconomic factors. Biological factors include changes in hormone levels during and after pregnancy, while psychological factors encompass stress associated with pregnancy, childcare, work, and personal or family history of mental health issues. Additionally, socioeconomic factors such as exposure to violence and abuse, financial issues, relationship problems, and lack of access to healthcare contribute significantly to MMH issues.

Pregnant women with maternal mental health issues may exhibit the following signs and symptoms:

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Anxiety
• Changes in appetite
• Social withdrawal or isolation
• Neglect of personal hygiene for both the mother and the baby
• Loss of interest in the baby or previously enjoyed activities
• Irritability or anger with unusual aggression
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Substance abuse
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby

It is imperative that maternal mental health be prioritized by the government, families, husbands, and all healthcare professionals. Prompt identification and treatment of MMH issues are crucial in ensuring the well-being of mothers and their babies.

The government must allocate resources to the Mental Health Authority (MHA) to prevent and treat MMH issues effectively. By doing so, Ghana can ensure that mothers receive the support and care they need during and after pregnancy, contributing to the overall health and well-being of families and communities.

For more information, please contact Bismark Kwabla Kpobi at bismarkkwablakpobi@gmail.com.