Ghana has rolled out its first Maternal Mental Health Policy (2026–2037), aimed at addressing the mental health challenges faced by pregnant women and new mothers across the country. The policy seeks to integrate mental health services into routine maternal healthcare from pre-conception through at least one year after childbirth.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh highlighted the initiative’s alignment with national development goals and global commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals and the WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan. He emphasized that supporting maternal mental health is critical for both maternal and child wellbeing, as well as for broader societal development.
The policy focuses on early detection, treatment, and community-based support, shifting care from specialised psychiatric facilities to primary healthcare systems, including CHPS compounds. This approach aims to equip midwives and community health nurses with skills to identify emotional distress and provide timely interventions.
Dr Eugene Dordoye, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Authority, noted that national data indicate 32 to 50 per cent of pregnant and postpartum women in Ghana experience mental health conditions, primarily anxiety and depression, yet fewer than 10 per cent currently receive care. “This policy responds to longstanding gaps in access and services,” he said.
The policy was developed through consultations with over 80 stakeholders, including government institutions, academia, civil society organisations, traditional and faith-based leaders, and women with lived experiences. It also calls for the extension of mental health coverage under the National Health Insurance Scheme and stronger coordination with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection.
Professor Titus Beyuo, MP for Lambussie Constituency, urged sustained funding and legislative oversight, noting that mental health has historically received less than three per cent of the national health budget. International partners, including the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the WHO, welcomed the policy, stressing the economic and social benefits of investing in maternal mental health.
Dr Fiona Braka, WHO Country Representative, highlighted the importance of addressing stigma and promoting early care-seeking, while Dr Terri Sarch of the UK-FCDO called for a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach to maximize impact.
The Maternal Mental Health Policy establishes a national framework for integrating mental health services into Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) programs, strengthening referral systems, workforce capacity, and community support mechanisms to ensure comprehensive care for mothers nationwide.
