MHA declares May as Purple Mental Health Awareness Month

CEO of the Mental Health Authority, Prof. Pinaman Appau

In a significant step towards promoting mental health wellbeing, the Mental Health Authority of Ghana, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and various stakeholders, has declared May as ‘Purple Month’ dedicated to mental health awareness health.

This initiative puts Ghana on par with other countries such as the United States and Britain, which also observe May for similar purposes.

Prof. Pinaman Appau, CEO of the Mental Health Authority, highlighted the need for greater awareness beyond the traditional World Mental Health Day on October 10. “One day is not enough to tackle the complex issues surrounding mental health. By expanding our focus to the entire month, we can make a more substantial impact,” said Prof. Appau.

Previously, Ghana faced challenges due to the overlapping celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, which diluted the focus on mental health issues. The shift to May is strategically important, avoiding conflict and maximizing the impact of the awareness campaign.

Ghana’s Purple Month is inspired by Mental Health America’s initiative that started in 1949. Prof. Appau noted: “We are adopting a model that has seen great success in other countries. Our goal is to raise mental health awareness, fight stigma and celebrate recovery to make a real difference in the lives of Ghanaians.”

Why purple?

Purple has been the emblematic color of the Mental Health Authority since its inception. It symbolizes a blend of the calming stability of blue with the vibrant energy of red. This color choice reflects the Authority’s commitment to providing hope and support to people affected by mental illness. “Purple represents dignity, peace and independence, all of which are crucial in the context of mental health,” explains Prof. Appau.

The meaning of the Purple Month

Mental health awareness is crucial for the holistic well-being of individuals across different dimensions of life. Unfortunately, stigma and lack of understanding often prevent people from seeking necessary help, leaving them isolated and reducing their quality of life and productivity.

Purple Month aims to change that by promoting mental health and behavioral health education. “We aim to promote dialogue, encourage proactive approaches to mental health care and ensure early intervention,” said Prof. Appau.
This year’s theme is: “Movement: exercise for our mental health.” According to Prof. Appau, the campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and the beneficial impact of physical activity on psychological well-being.

Dr. Pinaman Appau further explained that more than 2.3 million Ghanaians experience mental health disorders, and this makes awareness, education and support for mental health advocacy more important now than ever.

“In line with the Authority’s mission to raise awareness among the general public, elevate the voices of mental health service users and providers, and champion the rights and needs of affected individuals, this month-long campaign also encourages people to incorporate exercise into their daily lives as a means to promote mental well-being.” She added.

During Purple Month, the Mental Health Authority is focusing on a number of key outcomes:

1. Improved understanding of mental health symptoms: Diagnosis of mental health problems provides validation and facilitates access to appropriate treatments and coping mechanisms. Open discussions during Purple Month allow individuals to understand their experiences and seek support effectively.

2. Reduced stigma around mental health: Purple Month aims to bridge gaps in understanding and combat the enduring stigma around mental illness. Through education and awareness activities, communities can change their perceptions of mental health, creating greater acceptance and support for individuals struggling with mental health issues.

3. Improved mental health literacy: Educating healthcare providers, employers, parents and the broader community about the impact of mental health on daily life is critical to promoting supportive environments. By prioritizing mental health care, communities can empower individuals to thrive and live fulfilling lives.

4. Promoting mental wellness: Purple Month emphasizes the distinction between mental health and mental illness, and promotes mental wellness as a proactive approach to emotional health and cognitive agility. By reducing and embracing the stigma.

A call to action

The Mental Health Authority invites everyone to take part in Purple Month activities, including media campaigns, community events and educational programmes. These initiatives aim to increase community support for mental health and encourage individuals to seek help and celebrate recovery.

As the Purple Month unfolds, it becomes more than just a celebration; it is an essential movement toward improving understanding of mental health care, reducing stigma, and empowering individuals to live more fulfilling lives.

Prof. Appau’s message is clear: “Let’s embrace the Purple Month as our opportunity to create a supportive environment where mental well-being is paramount and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.”

Prof. Appau said activities will include outreach programs to schools, businesses and communities, educational workshops and traditional and social media campaigns designed to inform and engage the public in mental health discourses.

She further urges Ghanaians to add a touch of purple at their various workplaces and gatherings this month, wear ‘purple month’ or mental health related T-shirts, spread mental health related information on their social media accounts and share their experiences. journey of movement and wellness on social media using the hashtags #MoveForMentalHealthGH and #PurpleMonth.

Dr. Appau called on citizens to “inspire each other with our commitment to mental well-being.”