politics
Unable to access clinical care, Ghana's mentally ill turn to faith healing

Unable to access clinical care, Ghana's mentally ill turn to faith healing

20 Ocak 2026Japan Times

🤖AI Özeti

In Ghana, the surge in depression and anxiety following COVID-19 has highlighted a significant gap in mental health care, with only about 80 psychiatrists available for a population of over 35 million. This lack of access has led many individuals struggling with mental health issues to turn to faith healing as an alternative. The reliance on spiritual solutions underscores the urgent need for improved mental health services in the country.

💡AI Analizi

The situation in Ghana reflects a broader issue faced by many countries where mental health resources are scarce. The reliance on faith healing can be seen as both a cultural response and a symptom of systemic failures in healthcare. Addressing mental health needs requires not only increasing the number of professionals but also integrating traditional practices with modern medical approaches to provide holistic care.

📚Bağlam ve Tarihsel Perspektif

Ghana's mental health care system has been under strain, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. With a severely limited number of mental health professionals, many individuals are left without adequate support, leading to a rise in alternative healing practices. This trend raises questions about the effectiveness of current mental health policies and the need for reform.

This article reflects the situation as of the publication date and may not account for subsequent developments.