The Director of Pantang Hospital in the Greater Accra Region, Dr. Yennusom Maalug, has clarified that while the use of cannabis (marijuana) and other hard substances can trigger mental disorders, they cannot be described as the root cause of mental illness.

Speaking on the Ghana Yensom Morning Show on Accra 100.5 FM hosted by Otafrgya Kwesi Apea-Apreku, Dr. Maalug explained that the exact cause of mental illness remains unknown globally, as no research has conclusively established its origins.

“There are people who have used hard drugs and remain fine, while others develop mental disorders as a result of their use.

At the same time, we also treat patients who have never abused substances but suffer from mental conditions,” he noted.

According to him, about 40 percent of Ghana’s population experience some form of mental challenge, while 13 percent live with diagnosable mental disorders.

He stressed that mental health issues are not restricted by age and may in some cases have hereditary links.

Dr. Maalug further highlighted the socio-economic burden of mental disorders, explaining that they often interfere with patients’ economic productivity and occupational stability.

As Pantang Hospital marks its 50th anniversary this year, the Director announced that the facility will launch its Golden Jubilee celebrations on Friday, August 29, 2025.

The hospital, established in 1975, is appealing to corporate Ghana and philanthropists for support to give the facility a much-needed facelift.

Dr. Maalug, who is the sixth director of the hospital, also called on the government to consider establishing a special levy dedicated to funding mental health services in Ghana.