The Daily Graphic welcomes the move by some NGOs to pursue community-based sensitisation programmes in order to remove stigma associated with mental health. The paper is not happy about the approach used to treat mental patients, saying many a time, the treatment approach is often informed by beliefs, some of which are based on assumptions or the perception that mental illness is spiritual, mystery or curse. It agrees with the Former Chief Psychiatrist and Chairman of the Mental Health Authority that instead of stigmitising mental health patients and attributing every psychiatric condition to superstition, people should rather embrace sufferers and their families by encouraging them to seek the required care. The Graphic implores relevant stakeholders including NGO’s and government to collaborate to improve mental health in the country.
The Ghanaian Times calls on the Veterinary Service to quickly move into Dedenu to ascertain the looming outbreak of an animal health crises. This follows the Dedenu District Director of Veterinary Services, Dr Jehadi Osei-Bonsu’s admission that his outfit has not been informed about the outbreak of foot and mouth disease in the area due to the farmers’ reluctance to report the issue. The disease has been nicknamed ‘suffer’ by local cattle farmers due to the enormous pain it inflicts on an animal. The paper says it fears that some of the infected animals which might not show signs of the disease could be sold to unsuspecting members of the public which could potentially increase the risks in the area. It prays the Veterinary Service to, at the end of its findings into the disease, roll out sensitation programmes to educate farmers on what to do about the outbreak and the public on the wholesomeness of beef.
