The Mental Toll of Rising Rent in Ghana

Across Ghana, especially in urban centers like Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, the rising cost of rent and housing is pushing many families and individuals into a silent crisis. Beyond the economic burden lies a deeper, often ignored cost—the emotional and psychological strain of housing insecurity.

According to Dr. David Rex Orgen, a respected voice in international mental health advocacy, “A home is not just a shelter—it’s a source of stability, identity, and emotional safety. When people live with the fear of eviction or financial struggle over rent, their mental health is constantly under attack.”

The Invisible Weight

From young graduates searching for their first apartment to struggling families sharing overcrowded spaces, the impact of high rent and unstable housing is felt at all levels. This instability fuels:

Chronic stress and sleep disturbances

Anxiety and fear of displacement

Family tension and emotional burnout

A sense of shame and inadequacy, especially among men expected to “provide”

Desperation among youth, leading some into unsafe or exploitative arrangements

Many Ghanaians are working multiple jobs just to afford a place to stay—leaving no room for rest, reflection, or long-term planning.

Housing and Dignity

Dr. Orgen believes that stable housing is one of the foundational pillars of mental wellness. “You cannot heal a nation emotionally when its people have nowhere to rest their heads. The body may survive instability, but the mind breaks slowly in silence.”

The issue of housing insecurity also crushes self-esteem and breeds a mindset of survival over growth. This particularly affects the youth, who begin to see dreams as luxuries they can’t afford.

The Way Forward

To policymakers: Create fair rent regulations, invest in low-income housing, and enforce tenant protection laws.

To landlords: Practice ethical rent-setting and understand the human stories behind the payments.

To urban planners and developers: Prioritize dignity in housing—not just luxury for the few.

To the church and civil society: Offer emotional support, temporary shelter, and advocacy for the displaced.

Final Word

A house is made of bricks, but a home is built on peace of mind. Ghana’s progress must include mental shelter for its people—starting with policies that protect their right to safe, affordable living.

As Dr. David Rex Orgen often reminds, “A stable home creates a stable mind. Without both, no nation can truly stand.”