Accra, April 1, – Ghana has launched its inaugural Maternal Mental Health Policy (2026–2037), aimed at addressing mental health challenges affecting pregnant women and new mothers nationwide.
The policy integrates mental health services into routine maternal healthcare, covering pre-conception through at least one year postpartum, with emphasis on early detection, treatment, and community-based support.
Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health, speaking at the launch, said the initiative aligns with national priorities and global commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals and the WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan. He described maternal mental health as central to national development and outlined measures to embed services within reproductive and child healthcare, expand community interventions, and strengthen health worker capacity.
The Minister noted that the government is working to extend coverage under the National Health Insurance Scheme and enhance coordination with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and local authorities. Implementation will be monitored by the Mental Health Authority and the Ghana Health Service, which will provide periodic progress reports.
Dr. Eugene Dordoye, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Authority, highlighted that a national analysis with WHO showed that 32–50 per cent of pregnant and postpartum women in Ghana experience mental health conditions, primarily anxiety and depression, yet fewer than 10 per cent receive care. He emphasised a shift from specialised psychiatric facilities to primary healthcare systems, including CHPS compounds, to improve access.
The policy will equip midwives and community health nurses with skills to identify early signs of emotional distress and provide timely interventions. Development involved consultations with over 80 stakeholders, including government institutions, academia, civil society, traditional and faith-based leaders, and women with lived experiences.
Professor Titus Beyuo, MP for Lambussie Constituency, called for sustained funding and legislative oversight, noting that mental health has historically received less than 3 per cent of the national health budget. He urged Parliament to advocate for increased allocations and consider legal reforms to strengthen protections for mothers.
International partners, including the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), expressed support, highlighting the economic and social benefits of investing in maternal mental health. Dr. Terri Sarch of the UK-FCDO emphasised that such investments improve health outcomes and productivity. Dr. Fiona Braka, WHO Country Representative, called for effective implementation while addressing stigma and promoting early care-seeking.
The Maternal Mental Health Policy provides a framework for integrating mental health into RMNCAH services, strengthening referral systems, workforce capacity, and community support mechanisms nationwide.
GHBUSS
01 April 2026
No comments:
Post a Comment