"You are not alone"-Mental Health Authority pledges support for Ghanaian returnees

Dr. Eugene K. Dordoye, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Authority, assured Ghanaian returnees of psychosocial support and compassionate reintegration on May 27, urging them to see their return home not as the end of dignity but the beginning of healing, hope, and restoration. He described the country as a place of "healing, hope, and renewed belonging," emphasizing that returnees should not see themselves as defined by hardship, but rather by resilience and courage. He acknowledged the emotional and psychological toll many returnees have endured, noting that several individuals had faced rejection, exploitation, discrimination, uncertainty, fear, and violence while abroad, experiences that often leave "invisible injuries and scars on the mind."

Dr. Dordoye praised the courage of returnees for persevering and making the journey home, reminding attendees that although they may have been "hard pressed on every side," they were "not crushed." He stressed that psychological care should not be viewed as a privilege reserved for a few, stating that "Mental health is not a luxury reserved for the fortunate," and that "Emotional well-being, dignity, hope, and psychological safety are fundamental human needs." He highlighted the challenges many returnees may face during reintegration, including anxiety about the future, financial insecurity, stigma, and loneliness, and encouraged society to approach such experiences with compassion rather than judgment.

The Mental Health Authority, in collaboration with partners and relevant ministries, is strengthening psychosocial support systems, counselling services, community-based care, and reintegration programmes to support returnees both emotionally and socially. Dr. Dordoye officially welcomed the returnees home on behalf of the Mental Health Authority, the Ministers for Health and Foreign Affairs, and the people of Ghana, and expressed hope for their future.