Cape Coast, Ghana (Muzicgh) - The mental health unit of University of Cape Coast (UCC) Hospital, in collaboration with the Directorate of University Health Services, conducted a specialized mental health outreach for the institution's security and fire service personnel on Oct. 10, 2023, World Mental Health Day.
The initiative addressed the distinct occupational stressors faced by these essential staff members. Participants received confidential mental health screenings and basic physiological assessments, including blood pressure, blood glucose, and malaria testing.
Educational sessions focused on identifying common mental health concerns, recognizing job-related stressors, and emphasizing the importance of timely help-seeking. Attendees also received information on accessible university and local mental health resources, such as counseling, support groups, and crisis hotlines.
Due to staff scheduling, the outreach was extended to a second day on Oct. 11, ensuring broader participation. University health officials said the program aimed to equip personnel with practical stress management strategies to enhance well-being, productivity, and awareness of available support systems, aiding in the prevention and early intervention of mental health conditions.
This outreach aligned with the 2023 World Mental Health Day theme, "Mental Health is a Universal Human Right," championed by the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO estimates one in eight people globally experience mental health conditions. The theme underscores the entitlement of all individuals, regardless of profession, to protection from mental health risks and access to quality, acceptable care without discrimination or rights violations.
A participating security officer highlighted the universal nature of mental health challenges, noting they can impact anyone. The university's program exemplifies efforts to translate the theme into tangible action, particularly for groups whose roles often involve significant stress but may lack tailored support.
World Mental Health Day serves as a global platform for stakeholders to advocate for improved mental healthcare access and to combat the stigma and discrimination that frequently surround mental health conditions, hindering help-seeking and community inclusion.
A participating security officer highlighted the universal nature of mental health challenges, noting they can impact anyone. The university's program exemplifies efforts to translate the theme into tangible action, particularly for groups whose roles often involve significant stress but may lack tailored support.
World Mental Health Day serves as a global platform for stakeholders to advocate for improved mental healthcare access and to combat the stigma and discrimination that frequently surround mental health conditions, hindering help-seeking and community inclusion.
This is great piece. And kudus to UCC DUHS, Mental Heath Unit in Charge, staff, and interns for such a needful initiative. Mental health should not be taken for granted.
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