Culture encompasses gender norms which may exacerbate gender-specific risk factors for mental disorders in women. In Ghana, women are more likely to experience gender-based violence which will undoubtedly result in psychological harm (Quarshie, 19:40). A phenomenon coined “Superwoman Syndrome” describes how Ghanaian women take on the caregiver role in the family, end up with a disproportionate burden of responsibilities, and feel a sense of guilt when they have to decline providing help (Quarshie, 22:20). This syndrome is culturally accepted and even encouraged as an appropriate sentiment for women, which can lead to burnout and depression (Quarshie, 22:39).
In Ghana, if a tragedy occurs within a family, old women in the family may be accused of having performed witchcraft and are sent to a witch camp (Quarshie, 38:25). Undoubtedly, being sent to a witch camp, knowing that you are innocent, has adverse mental health consequences. Furthermore, female genital mutilation (FGM) remains common in sub-cultures within Ghana (Quarshie, 45:08). This practice leaves lasting physical, psychological, and emotional impacts on young girls, and these mental burdens are often left untreated. Unfortunately, family members often impose these practices upon each other. Family members accuse old women in their family of witchcraft, and oftentimes, girls are taken by their relatives to have FGM conducted (Quarshie, 44:10).
Although gender-specific mental health services should be expanded for women, men should be provided with counseling to instill in them the unjust nature of gender-based violence, witch camps, and FGM. Men should be taught about treating women as equals, and this education should begin from a young age to prevent them from adopting pre-existing cultural ideology. It is the responsibility of governments, community psychologists, and health interventionists to ensure that not only is legislation passed to improve mental health services for women, but also to guarantee that it is implemented effectively.
References
Quarshie, E. (2022, March 30). The Roles of Culture and Gender in Mental Health [Lecture Presentation]. New York University Accra, Ghana.