Joseph Attoh 
The Nkawkaw Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Philip Osei-Korsah, has urged Ghanaian youth to refrain from spiritualising mental health issues and instead seek professional counselling for a balanced and fulfilling life.
Speaking on the topic, “Mental Health Among Young People” during the 2026 PENSA Ghana Conference at KNUST on Saturday, January 3, 2025, Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah stressed that while prayer remains essential, maintaining sound mental health requires practical knowledge to manage stress, anxiety and difficult emotions.
He warned that failure to address mental health concerns can lead to severe consequences affecting health, relationships, careers and overall quality of life. Citing World Health Organization statistics, he noted a 6.34 per cent prevalence of mental health challenges among those aged 20 to 29, with studies showing that eight per cent of tertiary students suffer depression.
Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah highlighted rising cases of depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicidal behaviour among young people. He further identified gambling and betting as major contributors, revealing that 43.6 per cent of young gamblers experience depression, while 68.6 per cent suffer anxiety.
Debunking myths around drug use for academic performance, he outlined key causes of mental health challenges, including poor stress management, low self-esteem, identity struggles, toxic parenting, neglect, domestic violence, academic pressure and unhealthy social media competition.
He cautioned against the pressure to appear strong online, stating: “Strength is not the absence of struggle, but the courage to speak, seek support and heal.”
Quoting 1 Peter 5:7, he encouraged believers to cast their cares on God while emphasising the importance of devotion and professional help.
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