Ghana’s Domestic Violence: A Silent Epidemic

Domestic violence is a silent epidemic sweeping across homes, communities, and generations in Ghana. Dr. David Rex Orgen, best-selling author and international mental health expert, draws urgent attention to the patterns, pain, and psychological scars left behind by domestic abuse—particularly its devastating impact on the youth.

According to Dr. Orgen, domestic violence often starts subtly. It begins with emotional manipulation, harsh words, silent treatment, or controlling behavior. Over time, it escalates—manifesting in verbal threats, physical assaults, economic deprivation, and in many cases, sexual abuse. The cycle is fueled by cultural silence, fear, stigma, and a lack of support systems.

What makes domestic violence particularly dangerous, Dr. Orgen explains, is its invisibility. Many victims suffer behind closed doors—living in fear, shame, and confusion. In Ghana, cultural expectations often urge women and children to endure abuse “for the sake of the family,” while men are discouraged from showing vulnerability or speaking out.

The Youth Are the Silent Victims

Children and adolescents exposed to domestic violence are among the most deeply affected. Dr. Orgen emphasizes that growing up in a violent home distorts a young person’s understanding of love, safety, and self-worth. These youth may:

Develop anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress.

Struggle academically or socially due to constant emotional tension.

Repeat the cycle in their own adult relationships—either as victims or perpetrators.

Turn to drugs, alcohol, or risky behavior as coping mechanisms.

Suffer from identity loss, aggression, or suicidal thoughts.

Beyond the bruises and broken bones, domestic violence breaks the spirit, disturbs mental health, and disconnects families from peace and purpose.

Solutions and Way Forward

Dr. Orgen believes that domestic violence is not just a legal or social issue—it’s a public mental health crisis. He offers the following solutions as part of a national healing response:

1. Early Education: Schools must teach emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and healthy relationship skills from an early age.
2. Safe Spaces and Shelters: Communities need more accessible shelters, support centers, and helplines for victims to escape abuse and find help.
3. Counseling and Therapy: Mental health professionals should be deployed into communities and schools to provide trauma-informed care for victims and families.
4. Engage Men and Boys: Redefining masculinity and empowering boys to express emotions, respect women, and break the silence around abuse is essential to long-term change.
5. Law Enforcement Training: Police officers and community leaders must be trained to handle domestic violence cases with urgency, empathy, and professionalism.
6. Faith-Based and Cultural Partnerships: Religious and traditional leaders must take bold stands against abuse, using their influence to change mindsets and protect the vulnerable.

Call to Action:

Dr. David Rex Orgen calls on every Ghanaian—parents, educators, policymakers, faith leaders, and youth—to rise and speak out. Domestic violence must not be normalized. It must not be hidden. It must not be passed on.

Let us listen to the children. Let us believe the victims. Let us break the cycle.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, visit www.inspiremindglobal.com for confidential support, mental health counseling, and empowerment resources.

Together, we can build homes of healing—not harm. Peace must begin at home.