The Mental Health Authority of Ghana has officially launched the 2026 National Fundraising Campaign for Purple May Month, issuing a strong call to action to promote mental well-being and translate awareness into meaningful impact.
The event, held at the headquarters of the Assemblies of God Ghana, brought together policymakers, health professionals, corporate leaders, and members of the public, all united in a shared commitment to advancing mental health in Ghana.
This year’s campaign is focused on improving the mental well-being of Ghanaians by promoting, protecting, and restoring mental health—while empowering individuals to cope with stress, realize their full potential, and actively contribute to their communities.
Speaking at the launch, the Chief Executive of the Mental Health Authority Dr. Eugene K Dordoye has called on District Chief Executives (DCEs) across the country to take active responsibility in supporting and caring for persons living with mental health conditions, rather than allowing them to be neglected or left to survive on the streets.
He made the appeal during an engagement with stakeholders in the health sector, where he stressed that mental health is a critical component of overall public health and must not be treated with indifference at the local government level.
According to him, many individuals struggling with mental health challenges continue to roam the streets without proper care, protection, or access to treatment—an issue he described as both a health and social concern that requires urgent attention from local authorities.
He emphasized that DCEs, as leaders closest to the communities, have a key role to play in identifying vulnerable persons, collaborating with health services, and ensuring they are taken off the streets and linked to appropriate care and rehabilitation services.
Dr. Eugene K Dordoye further urged assemblies to strengthen coordination with the Mental Health Authority of Ghana and other health institutions to improve outreach, reduce stigma, and promote reintegration of affected persons into society.
He reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to working with local governments, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations to ensure that mental health care becomes more accessible, humane, and community-based across the country.
In addition , the Director of Accra Psychiatric Hospital, Dr. Kojo Obeng, highlighted the importance of the initiative in promoting, protecting, and improving mental well-being. He noted that the programme is helping to transform lives and strengthen mental health care delivery across the country.
Dr. Obeng further emphasized that the hospital has undergone significant improvements in recent years, making the psychiatric field increasingly attractive to both experts and students.
He added that this growing interest is contributing to the development of Ghana’s health sector and enhancing the quality of mental health services nationwide.
He emphasized that mental health is essential to national development, noting that individuals who are mentally well are better able to work productively, build healthy relationships, and support community growth.
He further highlighted the importance of creating safe and supportive environments—at home, in workplaces, and across society—where people feel comfortable discussing mental health challenges without fear of stigma.
The Purple May initiative also places strong emphasis on collective responsibility, urging organizations, agencies, and business leaders to champion frontline mental health services and integrate psychological support systems into their structures.
Mental health is not a privilege for a few, but a right for all. Together, we must build a compassionate community where everyone feels supported.
Sompaonline.com/Bismarck Oppong