In recent years, concerns are rising about mental health issues, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. However, it is the younger generation that is particularly vulnerable and in desperate need of attention and support.

The youth are the future of the nation, and their well-being should be of utmost importance. Unfortunately, many young people today face significant challenges that take a toll on their mental health. Academic pressure, social media, peer judgment, and the constant pursuit of perfection have become pervasive issues, contributing to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicide rates.

A society must recognize and address these challenges head-on. Mental health should no longer be stigmatized or brushed aside as something that will simply resolve itself. There must be a priority in mental health education, awareness, and accessible support systems for the youth.

First and foremost, there is the need to start by fostering open conversations about mental health. Breaking the silence and destigmatizing these issues, creates an environment that encourages young people to seek help when they need it.

Schools, families, and communities should come together to provide safe spaces where young individuals can freely express their emotions and concerns without fear of judgment.

Investing in mental health education and awareness programs in schools by teaching the youth about emotional well-being, coping mechanisms, and self-care strategies will equip them with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges they face. By integrating mental health education into the curriculum, it ensures that every child receives the support and understanding they need to thrive.

Access to mental health resources and services is another critical aspect of prioritizing mental health. It is essential to make mental health services affordable, accessible, and readily available to all. This includes increasing the number of mental health professionals in schools, creating helplines, and establishing counseling centers in communities.

Additionally, they should invest in digital platforms and online resources that provide mental health support, ensuring that no young person feels alone or isolated.

Ghanaian media personality, MC Yaa has made a passionate plea for the nation to prioritize mental health, especially among the youth.

According to her, many mental health cases in the country could have been prevented if they were detected early and if the mental health sector was taken seriously.

“Mental health is not something you can spot quickly until it manifests itself in the open. In other countries, kids go through things at age 12, but immediately after their parents find out, they quickly take them for treatment or psychological help.”
MC Yaa

Teaching our youth the importance of self-care, healthy coping mechanisms, and the value of seeking help when needed makes a significant difference.

Promoting activities such as exercise, mindfulness, journaling, and engaging in hobbies helps young individuals build resilience and maintain positive mental health.

Struggles of Creatives

Indeed, the creative industry is challenging, and many creatives often face various struggles. It’s common for them to suppress their difficulties while still entertaining and engaging with their audience.

Creatives often want to present themselves as confident and capable professionals. They feel the need to uphold a certain image to maintain their reputation and avoid being seen as weak or vulnerable.

The creative industry is highly competitive and judgmental. Artists worry that sharing their struggles could lead to negative perceptions or affect their career opportunities. Hence, they choose to keep their challenges private.

Pressure to meet high expectations from their audience, fans, or clients. Creatives feel compelled to deliver consistent content or performances despite their struggles. This pressure leads them to suppress their difficulties and focus on their work.

Many creatives genuinely enjoy bringing joy and inspiration to others through their art. They prioritize the needs of their audience over their struggles, believing that their work provides an escape or uplifts others.

MC Yaa critiqued the local approach to mental health, which often involves ignoring the issue or urging individuals to simply endure their struggles.

“In this country, we don’t take mental health seriously. When someone is going through something, we tell them to endure it. That is why there are a lot of creatives going through things, but they have to bottle it up and still do their jobs as entertainers.
“They could be having issues at home, but the audience doesn’t care. You think you have a strong head and can go through such things. But you will be shocked the day it breaks you.”
MC Yaa

It’s important to recognize and support the mental health and well-being of creatives. Encouraging open conversations and creating a safe environment where they can express themselves can go a long way in helping them navigate their struggles more effectively.