Munira (not her real
name) has been manifesting mental illness after giving birth to her last child
about 25 years ago. A good samaritan saw Munira, the 65-year-old woman from the
Tolon district of the Northern region of Ghana in chains wandering around, then
informed the Mental Health Advocacy Foundation who went to her aid.
Munira had been in shackles for many years according to her family due to her aggressive nature and also to restrain her from attacking members of the community.
The team from Mental Health Advocacy Foundation led by Mr. Stephen Asante visited Munira to assess her situation and offer whatever support needed. Mental Health Advocacy Foundation upon assessment gave her initial interventions, even though the team suspect she might be suffering from schizophrenia, it is waiting on further medical examination from the Tamale Teaching Hospital
Schizophrenia is a disorder that affects a person's ability to think, feel and behave clearly. The exact cause of schizophrenia is not known, but a combination of genetics, environment and altered brain chemistry and structure may play a role. Schizophrenia is characterised by thoughts or experiences that seem out of touch with reality, disorganised speech or behaviour and decreased participation in daily activities. Difficulty with concentration and memory may also be present.
Treatment is usually lifelong and often involves a
combination of medications, psychotherapy and coordinated speciality care
services.
