By Freda Mwin, GNA
Wa, (UW/R), Oct. 12, GNA – Bahass Foundation, a mental health home and rehabilitation centre, has marked this year’s World Mental Health Day with the launch of a skills training programme for persons with mental health conditions receiving care at the Foundation.
Mr Elliasu Yussif Baba, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Foundation, said the initiative was part of efforts to equip the inmates at the Foundation with practical skills to support their reintegration into society after rehabilitation.
He was speaking at an event in Wa, organised by the Foundation to celebrate World Mental Health Day and launch the skills training initiative on the theme: “Lived Experience: I Hear It, Real Voices Will Change.”
World Mental Health Day is observed annually on October 10 to raise awareness of mental health issues and mobilise support for mental well-being.
Mr Baba indicated that the initiative would provide inmates with opportunities to learn and practice skills that could help them become productive and self-reliant post-rehabilitation.
He said the Foundation was committed to supporting the recovery and reintegration of people with mental health conditions by creating opportunities for them to develop their abilities and contribute meaningfully to society.
Mr Basagnia Sylvester, the Upper West Regional Mental Health Coordinator, urged the public to end stigmatisation and discrimination against persons with mental health conditions to promote their recovery and social inclusion.
He urged families, employers and communities to treat such persons with dignity and respect, stressing that mental health conditions should not define their identities.
Mr Basagnia said the use of derogatory language and exclusion from family and workplace activities could make affected persons feel unwanted and discourage them from engaging in activities that could help in their recovery.
He also expressed concern about drug and substance abuse in the region and called on traditional leaders, parents and community members to intensify efforts to protect young people from such social vices.
Alhaji Nurah Issah Danwana, Wa Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), commended Bahass Foundation for its work in caring for persons with mental health conditions.
He said mental healthcare and social inclusion were important aspects of community development and urged stakeholders to support initiatives that promoted the dignity and well-being of persons with mental health conditions.
Mr Fatawu Dauda, the Coordinator of the Wa Community Foundation, commended the Bahass Foundation for providing care and support for persons with mental health conditions in the region.
He said the Wa Community Foundation was committed to improving the welfare of people, saying, “Anywhere people are, anywhere there is a need, that is where you will find us.”
Jawara Foundation donated assorted items, including clothing, bags of rice, cooking oil, tissue paper and GHS1,000.00, among others, to the Bahass Foundation to support its activities.
Mr Francis Baalodong, the National Coordinator of the Jawara Foundation, said the donation formed part of the organisation’s commitment to supporting vulnerable persons and contributing to youth development.
He said the Foundation recognised the importance of mental well-being in helping young people fulfil their potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
GNA
Edited by Benjamin Mensah