Beauticians in Northern Region Sensitised on Mental Health
Members of the Northern Regional branch of the Beauticians Association of Ghana have undergone sensitization on mental health and related challenges during an outreach programme held in Tamale.
The event was organized by Yasmeen Mental Oasis, a non-profit organization founded by Yasmeen Abdala, a survivor of mental health related crisis, as part of efforts to create awareness and help break the stigma surrounding mental health.
Speaking at the programme, Ms. Abdala said the initiative was inspired by her personal experience with mental health challenges and her desire to educate the public on the realities of mental illness.
According to her, many people suffering from mental health conditions are often stigmatized or misunderstood, making it difficult for them to seek help.
“I want people to understand that mental health issues are real and that people living with them deserve support and compassion, not discrimination,” she said.
A psychologist and lecturer at the University for Development Studies, Dr. Peter Mwintir Amadu, who was one of the main speakers at the event, educated participants on the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions and encouraged people to seek professional support whenever they experience mental distress.
He stressed that mental health conditions should not be associated with evil or spiritual attacks.
A psychiatrist with the Ghana Health Service, Alhassan Neindoo Ibrahim, also urged the public to seek help from qualified health professionals rather than relying solely on shrines, prayer camps, mosques or churches.
According to him, the Ghana Health Service has designated mental health units at various hospitals where individuals can access professional care and support.
Executive Director of SWIDA Ghana, Hajia Alima Sagito, spoke on the relationship between mental health and entrepreneurship.
She advised beauticians to understand mental health issues in order to better relate with clients who may be going through emotional or psychological difficulties.
“As beauticians, many clients come to you with different emotional burdens. Understanding mental health will help you relate better with them,” she said.
Hajia Sagito also encouraged participants to know their personal limits and avoid overworking themselves to the point of mental exhaustion.
She further emphasized the importance of discipline in the beauty profession, describing it as a key trait for success.
A Senior Manager with the TVET Informal Apprenticeship Programme, Madam Humeima, also called on masters and trainers to protect the mental well-being of their apprentices by avoiding excessive pressure and making apprenticeship fees affordable.
She encouraged trainers to watch out for signs of stress, anxiety and other mental health concerns among apprentices and help them seek timely support.
Madam Humaima commended Yasmeen Mental Oasis and its founder for championing mental health awareness and urged the organization to continue its advocacy to help reduce stigma in society.
The event also featured speeches from survivors of mental health ailments, Madam Memuna Yakubu, President of the Beauticians Association in Northern Region, Hon. Abdul Rahaman Zakaria, the Assemblyman of the Dungo E/A Primary Electoral Area where the event took place. Participant also shared experience and knowledge acquired from the sensitisation.
Credit: Kumbundoo Iddrisu
