Dr Lartey Obed, a mental health nurse and official for the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) in the Asuogyaman District, has warned that the country’s mental healthcare system is severely understaffed, leading to immense workload pressure on professionals.
According to Dr Obed, Ghana has fewer than 5,000 mental health nurses serving a population of over 34 million, resulting in a dire nurse-to-patient ratio of one nurse for every 5,000 mental health patients.
Dr Obed, speaking on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s Nyankonton Mu Nsem, emphasised that this critical shortage prevents nurses from providing comprehensive care and proactive support, which could help prevent psychiatric emergencies.
He stressed that adequate staffing would not only improve patient safety but also reduce stress and anxiety for both patients and healthcare providers.
He asserted that Ghana must significantly increase its investment in psychiatric care, including hiring more staff and improving infrastructure.
Dr Obed was speaking in response to a question about the capacity of mental health nurses to assist families and witnesses of the recent military helicopter crash.
“Mental health nurses or nurses who have trained as professionals in mental health are less than 5,000. These professionals, who are less than 5,000, are providing services for over 34 million citizens. By this figure, it means that one mental health nurse is expected to provide care for 5,000 patients. We are understaffed; however, we are doing our best to provide holistic care for the population. As Ghanaians we have a responsibility to support people and encourage them so they don’t suffer a mental breakdown,” he said.
He highlighted the urgent need for professional care for those affected by the helicopter crash, stating that psychologists and mental health professionals are crucial for helping the bereaved families and witnesses cope with their grief and trauma.
He concluded by stressing that prioritising mental health is vital for the nation’s overall progress. “We have to take mental health seriously in this country. Productivity will increase when citizens are mentally sound, and also we would also make economic growth or increase our GDP.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
