Chief Justice urges employers to tackle mental health stigma in workplaces

Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has urged employers and public institutions in Ghana to foster supportive work environments where individuals dealing with mental health issues can seek assistance without facing stigma or discrimination. In a speech delivered at the 2026 World Mental Health Day celebration, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie emphasized that mental well-being should be considered a crucial component of a thriving workplace.

He called for the implementation of policies that prioritize employee welfare and enhance access to professional mental healthcare. The Chief Justice made these remarks at the event, organized by the Greater Accra Regional Health Service and the Judicial Service of Ghana, which took place at the Court Complex in Accra. The theme for the day was "Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change."

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie stressed that discussions surrounding mental health need to shift beyond mere statistics and diagnoses to encompass the personal experiences of those affected. He noted that the fear of judgment and exclusion often deters individuals from openly discussing their mental health issues. "We must actively listen with empathy and allow these experiences to shape our policies, support systems, and responses to those navigating challenging periods," he stated.

The Chief Justice highlighted that judicial officers often work in high-stress situations, encountering conflict, trauma, loss, crime, and family disputes, which can significantly impact their mental health. He stressed that seeking help should not be perceived as a weakness. He further emphasized that the well-being of judicial staff is essential for maintaining an effective justice system and advocated for screening for chronic medical conditions and mental health assessments to facilitate prevention, early detection, and timely intervention.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie urged society to move from merely sympathizing with those facing mental health challenges to creating robust support systems, urging employers to maintain ongoing conversations about mental health, encourage colleagues to support one another, and promote access to professional assistance.