Trust Jesus Mental Health Foundation Marks 5th Anniversary with Mental Health Awareness Float

25 Aug Trust Jesus Mental Health Foundation Marks 5th Anniversary with Mental Health Awareness Float

PANTANG–ADENTA, GREATER ACCRA — 21ST SEPTEMBER 2024

The Trust Jesus Mental Health Foundation marked its 5th anniversary with a mental health awareness float through the Pantang and Adenta communities on Saturday, 21st September 2024.

The float, which formed part of activities commemorating the Foundation’s fifth anniversary, commenced at Pantang Hospital, passed through the Adenta Barrier and surrounding communities, before returning to Pantang Hospital.

The event brought together members of the Trust Jesus Mental Health Foundation, the Youth Department of Amazing Grace SDA Church, health professionals and other supporters who joined the Foundation in creating awareness about mental health.

Participants carried placards bearing powerful messages aimed at challenging misconceptions and encouraging the public to take mental health seriously. Some of the messages included “Think Mental Health, It Could Be You, It Could Be Me!”, “Mental Health Begins With Me,” “Strength in Seeking Help,” and “Mental Illness Affects Anyone Regardless of Status,” among others.

As the float moved through the communities, members of the Foundation engaged onlookers and residents along the route, sharing important information about mental health and encouraging people to pay attention to their emotional and psychological well-being.

The participants emphasised the importance of speaking up when experiencing mental health challenges rather than suffering in silence. They encouraged individuals to seek professional help when necessary and reminded the public that mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of age, social status, occupation, gender or background.

The float was supported by an escort from the Ghana Police Service, which helped to ensure the safety and orderly movement of participants throughout the exercise.

The awareness activity formed part of the Foundation’s broader commitment to reducing the stigma associated with mental illness and promoting open conversations about mental health in Ghana. Through the float, the Foundation sought to bring the message of mental health awareness directly into the community and remind the public that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The fifth anniversary celebration therefore provided an opportunity for the Trust Jesus Mental Health Foundation to reflect on its journey while renewing its commitment to mental health advocacy, education and support for people living with mental health challenges.

The Foundation urged members of the public to make mental health a personal and collective responsibility, stressing that mental health begins with each individual and that everyone has a role to play in creating a society where people feel safe to speak about their mental health and seek the help they need.