Mr John Asare, a psychiatric nurse at Kpone Hospital, has raised concerns that individuals exhibiting persistent mistrust and suspicion of others—believing they are being targeted for harm without adequate reason—may be suffering from underlying mental disorders.
In an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Mr Asare highlighted specific behaviours that could be red flags.
He noted that some people go to extreme lengths, such as repeatedly sanitising chairs others have sat on or applying anointing oils while praying over objects, driven by a fear of spiritual harm.
Mr Asare explained that such excessive suspiciousness could be a symptom of paranoid personality disorder.
“People with such conditions often believe others are trying to demean, harm, or threaten them,” he stated, emphasising the distress these fears cause.
He provided further examples of behaviours indicative of a mental health crisis, saying, “There are those who, before they touch a door handle or chairs used by others, would use anointing oil to clean the handles and pray over them. Such persons may be having a mental breakdown.”
He cited grandiose delusion as another sign, where individuals claim to have received prophecies of great wealth—boasting of multiple mansions and cars—despite possessing no significant assets.
Other signs include hallucinations, persistent feelings of sadness, stress, excessive fears or worries, extreme guilt, mood swings, and withdrawal from social activities and friends.
Mr Asare also mentioned, though less commonly associated, that extreme, repetitive choices in personal presentation—such as constantly wearing the same colour of shoes and clothes or dyeing hair the same colour—may, in certain contexts, be another manifestation of a mental health crisis.
The discussion comes ahead of World Mental Health Day, commemorated globally on October 10th since 1992.
Mr Asare stressed the significance of this year’s focus on providing support for persons with mental instability and disorders.
He firmly underscored that mental health conditions can affect anybody, making it crucial to eliminate discrimination against those who are affected.
”I have always encouraged Ghanaians not to discriminate against people with these conditions,” he asserted. “We can only encourage them to seek help.”
He concluded by calling for widespread support, noting that discrimination is a major barrier that prevents people from receiving the necessary care and treatment.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
