Understanding depression Reviewed 20 October 2026
How to help someone with depression in Ghana
Depression is not laziness, weak faith or “thinking too much”. It’s a common health condition, and it can be treated. Here’s how to spot it and how to help.
More than a bad week
Everyone has low days. Depression is different: a low, empty or irritable mood, or losing interest in things, that lasts most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.1
It’s common. The World Health Organization estimates that about 1 in 20 adults worldwide live with depression, and more women than men.1
Signs to look out for
- Sadness, emptiness or irritability that doesn’t lift
- No joy in things they used to enjoy
- Sleeping much more or much less, or eating much more or less
- Always tired, low energy
- Trouble concentrating at school or work
- Feeling worthless or guilty, or hopeless about the future
- Talking about dying or not wanting to be here
Those signs come from the WHO’s description of a depressive episode.1 Only a health worker can diagnose depression, but you don’t need a diagnosis to start caring.
What helps
There are effective treatments for mild, moderate and severe depression. Talking therapies come first, and medicine can be added for moderate or severe depression when a health worker advises it.1
Day to day, the WHO suggests small steady things: keep doing activities you used to enjoy, stay in touch with friends and family, move your body even if it’s a short walk, keep regular meals and sleep, cut down on alcohol, and talk to someone you trust.1
How to help someone you love
- Tell them what you’ve noticed, gently. “You haven’t seemed like yourself lately. How are you really?”
- Listen more than you advise. See what to say, in five simple steps.
- Help with one small thing. A walk, a meal, going with them to the clinic.
- Encourage care. A nurse, doctor or counsellor at their nearest health facility can help, and the helpline is free: 0800 678 678.2
- Keep showing up. Recovery takes time. A message tomorrow matters.
If it feels too heavy
If someone talks about not wanting to live, stay with them and call 0800 678 678 together. In danger right now, call 112.
Common questions
How do I know if it is depression or just sadness?
Depression lasts most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, and often comes with poor sleep, low energy, loss of interest and feelings of hopelessness. A health worker can assess it.
Can depression be treated in Ghana?
Yes. Depression is treatable with talking therapy and, when advised, medicine. Start at your nearest health facility or call the free Mental Health Authority helpline, 0800 678 678.
Sources
StigmaClear shares education and peer support, not medical advice. If you’re worried about your health, speak to a health worker.