The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lt Gen Thomas Oppong-Peprah has urged military personnel to be each other’s keeper and encouraged especially the men to speak out and seek the necessary support when faced with issues of mental health.

The CDS made these remarks during the maiden GAF Men's Mental Heath Conference held at Burma Hall on Wednesday 10 July 2024.

According to Lt Gen Oppong-Peprah, statistics available to him indicated that, mental health cases within the Armed Forces have risen since 2017 and by the end of 2019, a total of 614 cases were recorded. He noted that, a total of about 1300 cases were recorded from 2021 to 2023 signifying a significant increase.

In view of this pressing concern, the CDS entreated the Department of Medical Services to pull together all available resources to embark on a vigorous drive to reduce mental health cases within the Armed Forces.

 Lt Gen Oppong-Peprah underscored the importance of replicating such initiatives across all Garrisons regularly to provide timely interventions for those in need.

In view of this pressing concern, the CDS entreated the Department of Medical Services to pull together all available resources to embark on a vigorous drive to reduce mental health case within the Armed Forces. Lt Gen Oppong-Peprah underscored the importance of replicating such initiatives across all Garrisons regularly to provide timely interventions for those in need.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Chief Clinical Psychologist, Lt Col AFK Tenteh emphasised the critical role of stress management in addressing men's mental health.

He encouraged the adoption of a problem-focused approach, urging individuals to confront their issues head-on and seek the necessary professional help.

"You should not shy away from seeking professional help. The pressures of life and stress may come, but I encourage you to seek help to curb mental health issues," he stated.

On her part, senior clinical health psychologist, Miss Anita Paddy also addressed the conference, highlighting the need to avoid situations such as depression, anxiety and trauma to maintain a healthy life.

Miss Paddy also spoke about the need for personnel to desist from stigmatisation since it prevents those affected from opening up to seek help.

After the conference, a counseling session was organised to provide one-on-one support and attention for personnel.