Psychological Health in Marginalised Women Living in Witches’ Camps in Ghana

Abstract

Anxiety and depression are prevalent mental health issues, particularly affecting older women in vulnerable circumstances. In Ghana, older women accused of witchcraft endure severe mental health challenges due to stigmatisation and isolation. Many are sent to live in witches’ camps for safety, where they face limited access to care. This study investigated the prevalence of anxiety and depression among marginalised women in witches’ camps compared to women in the general population, highlighting the social factors associated with their mental well-being. The researchers employed a cross-sectional quantitative study design. Data were collected from 168 women from two witches’ camps in northern Ghana and 100 women from the general population using the Dagbani version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Camp participants were also asked supplemental questions about their living conditions and circumstances. Anxiety and depression scores were significantly higher among camp residents (M = 14.73, SD = 1.46 for anxiety; M = 17.85, SD = 1.55 for depression) compared to the general population (M = 6.18, SD = 2.43 for anxiety; M = 4.18, SD = 3.00 for depression). Common health complaints among the women from the witches’ camps were joint pain and hypertension. Social isolation and poor living conditions may have also impacted the women’s mental well-being in the witches’ camps. Many women in the camps relied on traditional medicine for treatment, and despite desiring to return home, many remained uncertain if they could go home. Women in witches’ camps in Ghana experience significantly higher anxiety and depression as well as adverse social conditions, such as poor housing, isolation, and unemployment. The study emphasises the need for mental health interventions addressing the unique emotional needs of these women and highlights the role of social determinants in mental health policies.