Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking: A Leading Cause of Mental Health Disorders in Ghana

In Ghana, drug abuse and illicit trafficking have emerged as significant contributors to mental health disorders, affecting individuals across diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Defined by the excessive and harmful consumption of psychoactive substances ranging from alcohol and cannabis to prescription medications like tramadol, drug abuse leads to addiction, health complications, and societal challenges.
This pervasive issue is intensified by socio-economic stressors, trauma, peer influence, and underlying mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.

The Mental Health Authority of Ghana has recognized the rising impact of drug abuse, particularly among the youth, and has embarked on a comprehensive approach to address these concerns.
In a statement, Ghana’s Mental Health Authority reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the challenges and devastating effects of drug abuse and illicit trafficking through evidence-based preventive measures.

Ghana faces a growing challenge with drug abuse, particularly among the youth, undermining public health, safety, and socio-economic development. Recent trends show a consistent rise in drug-related incidents and health crises, highlighting the urgent need for robust preventive efforts and intervention strategies.

Data from the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS) consistently lists mental disorders due to alcohol and other psychoactive substances among the top ten causes of mental health outpatient (OPD) attendance.

In 2023, there were 3,765 cases of mental disorders due to alcohol use and 5,554 cases related to other psychoactive substance use. The number of mental disorders due to psychoactive substance use has shown a steady rise from 4,155 cases in 2019 to 5,554 cases in 2023, with the most affected age range being 20-34 years. Alarmingly, children as young as 10-14 years are also presenting with conditions stemming from drug use.

Ghana’s Mental Health Authority, in collaboration with key stakeholders, is actively combating drug abuse through several initiatives. These include extensive public awareness campaigns conducted nationwide via traditional media, community outreach, and social media platforms to educate on the risks associated with drug abuse and reduce stigma while promoting help-seeking behaviours.

Additionally, MHA has implemented youth and school-based programs aimed at preventing drug use among young people, partnering with educators and counselors to create supportive environments in schools across the country.

Furthermore, essential services such as counseling, detoxification, and rehabilitation are provided through facilities like Pantang Hospital, Accra Psychiatric Hospital, and Ankaful Psychiatric Hospital, alongside other accredited government and private health facilities.