BY: Lambert Coffie | VoltaOnline
Mr. Joseph Gyeedu, Mental Health Officer at Ho Municipal Hospital, has advised students of Tanyigbe Senior High School to prioritize mental well-being, emphasizing that mental health is just as crucial as physical health.
Speaking on Friday, Day two of the Young and Safe Project Bootcamp in the school, he cautioned against using derogatory language to describe individuals with mental health challenges, stressing that it reinforces stigma and discourages those in need from seeking help.
“Words carry power,” Mr. Gyeedu said. “We must use them to uplift, not isolate.” He outlined common mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and eating disorders, highlighting that societal pressure often overlooks these struggles.
Mr. Gyeedu urged students to recognize warning signs, such as withdrawal, persistent anxiety, and sleep troubles, and seek help when necessary. He emphasized the importance of self-awareness in maintaining mental resilience, explaining that understanding emotions and triggers is a strength, not a weakness.
The three-day bootcamp, organized by the Young and Safe Project Consortium, aims to equip young people with essential knowledge on mental wellness, sexual and reproductive health, and cyber hygiene, promoting open dialogue and empowerment.
