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| Picture: Prof. Eugene Maafo Darteh, UCC |
Mental health is a vital aspect of human well-being, but it is often neglected or misunderstood, especially when it comes to children. Prof. Eugene Maafo Darteh, a professor of Social Dimensions of Sexual Reproductive Health and the Dean of Students’ Affairs of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), has some valuable insights and advice for parents and guardians who want to support their children’s mental health.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 2.3 million out of 28 million Ghanaians have a mental health issue and need mental health care. However, only 2% of them receive care and assistance from psychiatric services. Moreover, a study conducted in 2019 in Ghana revealed that 12–27% of primary school-aged children and 20–29% of high school students have emotional or behavioural issues.
Prof. Darteh, who was speaking at the 56th Awards Day of the UCC Basic School, said that these issues often go unnoticed and could lead to serious mental health problems in the future. He urged parents and guardians to be mindful of the emotions of their children and to pay attention to their mental health needs.
One of the ways to do this, he said, is to avoid unhealthy comparisons over their children’s academic achievements. He explained that every child has a different pace and potential of learning, and that parents should understand and encourage their children to improve. He shared his own personal experience of overcoming academic challenges through determination and hard work.
“If you should check my reports for my first few years in basic school, I was not a good student. My first three years in secondary school were bad and my first semester in the university was also bad but determination and hard work gradually saw me to this point. So, know the strength of your child and encourage the child to improve” he advised.
Another way to support children’s mental health, he said, is to allow them to engage in physical activity. He noted that physical activity can help children stay active, healthy, and happy. He cautioned parents against limiting their children’s activities to watching television, using tablets, and other sedentary habits.
“It should not only be watching of television, using tablets and the likes. Allow them to engage in other physical activities that will help them get active and generally improve their health” he added.
Prof. Darteh’s advice is timely and relevant, as mental health is becoming a global concern. By following his suggestions, parents and guardians can help their children develop a positive and resilient mindset, and prepare them for a brighter future.
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On its 56th Awards Day, the UCC Basic School honoured its diligent students for their accomplishments.
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Article References/Sources: UCC: Be Mindful of your Children’s Mental Health – Parents Advised
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