New U-CARE study highlights the prevalence and social determinants of anxiety and depressive disorders and symptoms in Ghana

High prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms

The review included 38 studies comprising 22,587 adults. The findings show that over a third of adults in Ghana experience symptoms of anxiety, and depression. Most studies focused on symptoms rather than clinically diagnosed disorders and relied on self-report screening tools, which may have influenced prevalence estimates. Nevertheless, the results point to a considerable mental health burden in the adult population.

Association between social determinants of mental health and symptoms anxiety and depression

The study also examined social determinants of mental health associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms. Higher levels of anxiety symptoms were associated with factors such as female gender, educational attainment, income and urban living, while depressive symptoms were more strongly associated with ethnicity, employment-related factors, exposure to traumatic experiences and social support.

Implications for policy and research

The authors note that limited population-based data continues to constrain mental health planning in Ghana. By bringing together existing evidence, the review offers valuable guidance for future policy and research. The findings highlight the need for contextually appropriate interventions that address key social determinants of mental health, with the aim of reducing disparities and improving the mental well-being of adults in Ghana.

Miro Anter