Since 2021, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has recorded approximately 1,300 cases of mental health disorders annually.

The statistics, according to graphic.com.gh, reflects post-COVID-19 data.

It also revealed that alcohol use disorder is the most prevalent, with 70 percent of the cases involving male officers.

Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Major General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, disclosed these alarming figures and directed the Department of Medical Services of the GAF to initiate a vigorous campaign to reduce mental health cases within the forces.

"Mental health cases in the Ghana Armed Forces have risen since 2017, culminating in 614 recorded cases by the end of 2019 for both males and females. Post-COVID-19 statistics show a significant increase, with an average of about 1,300 cases each year from 2021 to 2023, with 70 percent being males," Maj. Gen. Oppong-Peprah stated.

He expressed particular concern over the high prevalence of alcohol use disorder, which topped the list of mental health issues, while addressing a conference marking the conclusion of the inaugural GAF Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week in Accra.

The conference, themed “Promoting the Mental Health of Men in a Gender Sensitive Armed Forces,” highlighted the severe impact of mental health issues, which are often overlooked within the army despite their devastating effects.

Maj. Gen. Oppong-Peprah emphasized that the stigma surrounding mental health leads to far-reaching detrimental impacts, causing many to develop suicidal tendencies.

The reluctance of affected officers to seek help sometimes results in actual suicide.

Globally, men are more than twice as likely to die by suicide than women, according to the World Health Organisation.

Despite the high rate of suicides among men, reported cases of depression—a significant risk factor for suicide—are lower among men, a disparity attributed to societal gender roles.

"A lot of responsibilities placed on men result in excessive pressure," Maj. Gen. Oppong-Peprah noted.

He urged the GAF personnel to support one another, speak out, and express their emotions freely to combat stigmatization and promote mental well-being.

"Let us all strive to avoid substance abuse, excessive alcohol, gambling, and unnecessary spending, and organize our finances to live healthier lives going forward," the CDS advised.

Anita Paddy, a senior clinical health psychologist at the Therapy and Wellness Department of the 37 Military Hospital, highlighted that globally, one in four people experiences some form of mental health issue at some point.

The report added that she stated that 450 million people worldwide live with mental health conditions, but only one-third seek help.

Paddy emphasized the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including good eating habits and sufficient rest, in maintaining mental health.

She also identified hobbies and recreational activities as crucial for proper mental well-being and urged personnel to discuss their feelings with colleagues or seek professional advice to prevent harmful actions.

NAY/AE