Mental health professionals in the Upper East Region have raised alarm over increasing cases of mental illness and substance abuse, revealing that the region recorded more than 2,000 outpatient mental health cases last year.
Speaking on Dreamz FM’s “Breakfast Today” program as part of Mental Health Awareness Month activities, Upper East Regional Mental Health Coordinator Gifty Aboagyewaa Polycarp said the growing burden of mental health conditions required urgent public attention and action.
Polycarp said the month of May, also known as “Purple Month,” is dedicated to creating awareness on mental health and encouraging people to prioritize their psychological well-being.
“Mental health is very important. If you are not mentally healthy, you can’t perform. Your physical health will not be healthy,” she said.
She disclosed that the region recorded more than 2,000 outpatient mental health cases in 2025, including 108 diagnosed depression cases, seven reported suicide deaths and 269 attempted suicide cases.
According to her, the figures likely represent only a fraction of actual cases because many incidents occurring in communities go unreported.
Registered Mental Nurse Prince Kofi Yeboah attributed part of the crisis to increasing substance abuse, especially among young people.
Yeboah said marijuana, tramadol and other narcotic substances were contributing to dangerous behaviors, road crashes and worsening mental health conditions across the region.
“I have come across people as young as 12 and 15 years who are addicted to cocaine in the Bongo district,” he said.
He recounted a case in which a man allegedly chased family members with a knife after consuming marijuana and hallucinating that they were fowls.
Yeboah also warned about growing abuse of locally prepared substances and adulterated drinks sold in communities.
He alleged that some pito and sobolo vendors mix drinks with drugs, exposing unsuspecting consumers to harmful effects.
“A lot is happening in our communities. If we do not take drastic measures to address this, then we are heading toward doom,” he said.
The health professionals called for stronger collaboration between chiefs, law enforcement agencies, district assemblies and community members to combat drug abuse and improve mental health support services.
They also urged residents to seek professional help early when experiencing stress, depression or suicidal thoughts.
