Alcohol, drugs are not the solution to stress – doctors caution
Health professionals at Ghana’s International Maritime Hospital have warned men against relying on alcohol and drugs to cope with stress, emphasizing that such substances offer only temporary relief while leaving underlying issues unresolved.
Speaking at a media forum on men’s mental health organized by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Consultant General Surgeon Dr. Edward Amoah Boateng stated that alcohol and drugs have never been proven to provide a permanent solution to stress. “Alcohol won’t help. Drugs won’t help,” he said, noting that these substances merely provide a temporary distraction that often leaves problems feeling more severe once their effects wear off.
Dr. Boateng advocated for healthier coping strategies, highlighting regular physical activity as an effective way to manage stress. He explained that exercise stimulates the release of endorphins while reducing cortisol levels, thereby improving sleep and enhancing resilience to stressful situations.
The physician also encouraged men to confide in trusted family members and friends when feeling overwhelmed, pointing out that sharing problems can provide emotional relief and facilitate access to needed support. He further advised seeking assistance from religious leaders, including chaplains and imams, as well as qualified mental health professionals such as clinical psychologists, who are trained to address emotional and psychological difficulties.
Dr. Boateng’s remarks were echoed by Mr. Adams Umar Mengo, Head of Administration at the International Maritime Hospital, who identified substance abuse as a behavioral change that families should monitor, noting that some men conceal their drug use from loved ones for extended periods. He urged families to remain vigilant for signs that could indicate underlying mental health challenges.
Dr. Kissi Dompreh-Ofori, Deputy Executive Officer of the hospital, added that workers in the port community sometimes turn to alcohol and other substances due to work-related pressures, underscoring the need for greater mental health awareness and improved access to professional support services.
The healthcare professionals collectively urged men experiencing persistent stress to seek help early rather than resorting to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism.
This warning comes amid growing concerns about mental health in Ghana, particularly among men who often face societal pressures to appear strong and self-reliant. Cultural norms that discourage emotional expression can exacerbate stress and deter individuals from seeking help until problems become severe.
Recent studies suggest that substance use as a coping mechanism is prevalent among working-age men in Ghana, with many turning to alcohol or drugs to deal with job-related stress, financial pressures, or relationship difficulties. However, this approach often leads to a vicious cycle where substance use worsens mental health outcomes, creating additional problems that require even more intensive intervention.
Experts recommend a multi-faceted approach to stress management that includes physical activity, social support, professional counseling, and, when appropriate, medication prescribed by a healthcare provider. Workplace interventions, such as stress management programs and employee assistance services, can also play a crucial role in preventing substance misuse.
The International Maritime Hospital’s outreach initiative aims to educate the port community about healthy coping strategies and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. By addressing these issues proactively, healthcare providers hope to reduce the burden of substance-related disorders and improve overall well-being among Ghanaian men.
As Ghana continues to develop economically and socially, prioritizing mental health will be essential for building a resilient and productive workforce. The message from healthcare professionals is clear: when it comes to managing stress, alcohol and drugs are not the answer.
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