“My family saw me as a problem and did not ever want to associate with me.” These were the painful words of Madam Ageyure Atanga, a resilient woman from Bolga Yikene in Northern Ghana.
Diagnosed with schizophrenia in 2007, Ageyure faced not only the challenges of living with a mental health condition but also the deep stigma and rejection from her family and community.
“Before joining the group, life was tough for me. I was rejected by almost everyone. It was especially difficult walking through my community and seeing people point fingers at me.”
Her turning point came when she joined the Tiyanbangya Self-Help Group, supported by BasicNeeds Ghana. “The group made me feel at home and supported me throughout my recovery process,” she shared.
Through the intervention of BasicNeeds Ghana and its donors, Ageyure received access to regular medication, which stabilized her condition. She was also supported with materials such as weaving straws and livestock to enhance her livelihood. Today, she earns an income through basket weaving and rearing goats—occasionally selling a goat to cover the cost of her medication and food.
“I currently have four goats, though they were more in the past. The support has been a lifeline. My story has changed,” she says with a smile.
Thanks to the continued support of BasicNeeds Ghana and its partners, the stigma that once defined her life has faded. “My family and community members now treat me with dignity. They’re happy that I am doing well.”
Madam Ageyure is not only living a stable and fulfilling life, but she also stands as a beacon of hope for others in similar situations. “I am grateful to BasicNeeds and their donors for all the support. I pray that their work continues and expands, especially to reach others who haven’t yet benefitted.”
