The 2026 edition of the Mental Health Forum has officially been launched, with mental health advocate Jahara Osman, founder of the Premier Care Mental Health Forum, leading the initiative for the second time.
Speaking at the launch, Jahara Osman announced that the theme for this year’s forum is “Autism & ADHD: Clarity, Compassion, and Inclusion.”
She explained that the focus was deliberately chosen because Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) remain widely misunderstood in Ghana, often leading to stigma, misinformation, and inadequate support for individuals and families affected.
According to her, the 2026 forum aims to create a safe and inclusive space for open conversations, personal storytelling, and expert-led discussions that will help deepen public understanding, address misconceptions, and identify practical solutions to challenges surrounding neurodevelopmental conditions.
The main event is scheduled for 15th May, 2026, and will take place at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC), with stakeholders from the health sector, civil society, religious institutions, and the general public expected to participate.
Representing the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Hafez Adam, Director of Technical Coordination at the Ministry of Health, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the Mental Health Forum. He stated that the ministry is ready to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the success of the initiative.
Dr Adam described the Mental Health Forum as a life-saving platform that has the potential to make Ghana a better place for everyone. He stressed that mental health care must be approached as a collective responsibility, calling for stronger collaboration between religious bodies and health facilities.
He further highlighted the Ministry of Health’s support for the initiative and used the platform to advise the youth to refrain from drug abuse, noting its negative impact on mental well-being. He also encouraged stronger partnerships between churches and hospitals to promote holistic mental health care across the country.
The Mental Health Forum 2026 is expected to play a significant role in advancing awareness, inclusion, and compassionate responses to Autism and ADHD in Ghana.
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