“It hasn’t been easy living with a mental health condition. At one point, I felt the world was cruel to me, and I was completely helpless,” says Comfort Amaltinga, a 79-year-old woman from Gambibgo in the Bolga East District of the Upper East Region.
Comfort was diagnosed with schizophrenia years ago, a diagnosis that deeply affected her life. Many family members and community people distanced themselves from her, leaving her to face challenges alone. “Life took a very traumatic turn as I was left alone to face my fate. I kept praying and hoping that one day I would get help,” she shares.
Her prayers were answered when BasicNeeds-Ghana introduced its Mental Health and Development programme in her community. Comfort joined the YINESUNGMAH Self-Help Group, a peer support group formed to bring together persons living with mental health conditions. Today, she proudly serves as the group’s Chairperson.
With ongoing support from BasicNeeds-Ghana, local health workers, and donors, Comfort’s condition stabilized. The Mental Health Officer at Gambibgo Health Center, Miss Comfort Nsoh, helped mobilize the group for monthly meetings and ensured access to necessary medications. This support has been vital in improving Comfort’s wellbeing.
Beyond health, Comfort and her son received financial help to purchase a sewing machine, which has become a source of income for her family. “Thanks to BasicNeeds-Ghana and donors, I have also taken up basket weaving, which helps me support myself and my family,” she explains.
Comfort’s story is one of hope restored and life rebuilt. “My family and community now accept and support me. I am grateful to BasicNeeds-Ghana and all the donors for their kindness and generosity. May God bless them and open more doors for them,” she concludes.
