The Ashanti, Greater Accra and Central regions have consistently recorded more than 2,000 cases of bipolar disorder.

Dr Yaw Amankwa Arthur, Deputy Director of Health Promotion at the Mental Health Authority, made this known during a capacity-building session for guidance and counselling coordinators and school health programme coordinators on March 30, 2025, according to a report on graphic.com.gh.

“Within the last four years (2022-2025), more than 2,000 people were diagnosed with bipolar disorder in three regions in the country.

“The regions: Ashanti, Greater Accra and Central consistently recorded not less than 2,000 cases over the period," it noted.

Dr Arthur expressed worry that bipolar disorder remains widely misunderstood, contributing to stigma and delays in treatment.

Citizens urged to prioritise regular mental health check-ups

He reiterated the “need for continuous public education to ensure early detection, reduce stigma and improve outcomes for people living with bipolar disorder.”

Dr Arthur also explained that the disorder could be managed through medication, therapy, or a combination of both, and urged the public to seek prompt treatment, pointing out the need for public education to reduce stigma and improve health outcomes.

World Bipolar Day is observed annually on March 30 to raise global awareness, eliminate social stigma, and foster understanding of the condition.

It focuses on education, advocating for better care systems, and supporting those with lived experience. 

It also seeks to reduce stigma and misconceptions surrounding bipolar disorder, a mental health condition characterised by extreme mood, energy, and activity changes.

JKB/AE

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