The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has launched its maiden Men's Mental Health Week with a walk and fun games at the Nicholson Stadium, Burma Camp on Friday 5 July 2024.

Speaking on the theme "Promoting the Mental Health of Men in a Gender Sensitive Armed Forces," the Chief of Staff at the General Headquarters, Major General Joseph Prince Osei-Owusu underscored the importance of creating a supportive environment where men feel safe to seek help.

Major General Osei-Owusu highlighted the reluctance of men, often seen as the heads of families, to openly discuss their problems, stress and pressures. He emphasised the need for collective support to help address these issues, noting the societal stigma that men face regarding mental health.

"Men keep quiet and suffer in silence due to societal norms that view mental health struggles as a sign of weakness. This initiative is aimed at breaking these taboos and encouraging open dialogue," Major General Osei-Owusu stated.

On her part, the Gender Policy Advisor to the Chief of the Defence Staff, Group Captain Theodora Agornyo, advised the attendees to desist from stigmatisation of men facing mental health issues. She stressed the importance of creating an encouraging atmosphere for men to share their problems and access necessary treatment.

She added that, the event will be climaxed with a health conference at Burma Hall on Wednesday 10 July 2024 to create a platform for further conversation on mental health within the military community.