The escalation in alcohol consumption among Ghanaian youth is raising significant concerns regarding public health, with experts highlighting the adverse impacts.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that alcohol contributes to approximately 3 million deaths annually, representing 5.3% of all deaths globally.
Speaking to Happyghana.com Dr. Amo-Mensah Adjoa Peprah, a Senior Medical Officer at the Komfor Anokye Teaching Hospital, emphasized that while the physical health consequences of alcohol abuse like liver disease are well-documented, the mental health implications are equally severe, although often overlooked.
Dr. Peprah pointed out that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to depression and anxiety, linking heavy drinking to memory loss and behavioral problems. She explained that alcohol’s influence on brain chemicals, especially its interaction with neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, can exacerbate or trigger symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Highlighting that alcohol sales are legal and cannot be prohibited, Dr. Peprah advised individuals engaged in alcohol consumption to make efforts to reduce or cease their intake, suggesting limiting consumption to once a week or even monthly to prevent potential harm to themselves, their families, and society as a whole.