The highly anticipated Wholesome Summit, set to take place at the scenic Labadi Beach Hotel, aims to revolutionize mental health discussions in Ghana. “We are absolutely thrilled to partner with Labadi Beach Hotel,” said Lady-ann, one of the summit’s organizers. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to mental health awareness and provides a unique platform to engage the community in meaningful, transformative discussions.”
Speaking to Naa Dedei Tettey on Morning Starr, September 18, 2024, Dr. Seth, a renowned psychologist and mental wellness expert, offered insights on how the summit could change attendees approach to their own mental health. “Understanding the difference between mental health and mental illness is critical,” he explained. “Mental health is about our overall psychological well-being how we manage stress, relate to others, and make choices. In contrast, mental illness refers to specific disorders that disrupt this balance. This knowledge empowers us to approach mental health with the seriousness it deserves.” The workshops will focus on these vital distinctions, providing attendees with a deeper understanding.
The summit will showcase over 15 mental health professionals leading interactive sessions. “One pressing issue we can’t ignore is the rise of addiction not just to substances but to technology as well. We are witnessing a dramatic impact on our youth. Studies indicate that excessive screen time can actually shrink brain development in children under eight. We need to address this head-on to safeguard our future generations”, Dr. Seth pointed out.
While mental health conversations are gaining momentum, stigma still poses a significant barrier. “Our primary goal at the summit is to dismantle this stigma,” Lady-ann asserted.
“We aim to create a safe, open environment where participants can engage in honest conversations. Our expert panel, featuring voices from psychology, law, and human resources, will tackle the uncomfortable truths about stigma. If we don’t confront these issues directly, we risk perpetuating a cycle of fear and misunderstanding.”
Dr. Seth stressed the broader implications of mental health, noting, “Mental health is not just an individual issue, it affects families, communities, and even our nation. By cultivating a culture of understanding and empathy, we can help people realize that seeking help for mental health is just as important as seeking help for physical ailments. It’s essential to normalize these conversations, to foster an environment where everyone feels safe to seek support.”
The Wholesome Summit is poised to equip participants with valuable insights and practical strategies to improve their mental well-being. “We want attendees to leave feeling empowered, equipped with actionable tools, and with a newfound understanding that it’s perfectly okay to seek help”, Lady-ann expressed.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Mary Asantewaa Buabeng
