Mental health stands as one of the most under-discussed topics in Ghana owing to a plethora of reasons.

This is no surprise due to the depth of stigma surrounding the topic, discouraging cultural interpretations of mental conditions and the simple insignificance attributed to it. Such is truly disheartening considering how crucial the topic is.

Abysmal Productions ‘Somewhere in April’ (2023) marks yet another milestone in heightening the state of mental health awareness in Ghana.

The Production House undertakes a five-year project to revolutionise the lenses through which mental health is defined, erase the awful stigma of suffering mental health-related issues and as well as aid in healing and breaking the silence.

The Production House commenced the project in 2022, staging their first play, ‘We are All Mad’ written and directed by Miss Batali.

The play drew light on some seemingly trivial daily activities that contribute to narcissism abuse, identity crisis, anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression.

This year marks the team’s second year of mental health advocacy. It played on the theme ‘Voices in my Head’ showcasing the struggle people face to voice out about mental health issues. It seeks to break the silence and disarm the negativity of the voices in their heads.

The movement advocates for such through creative arts and Somewhere in April, for one, well-evinces this. The story touches on suicide, addiction, and discriminatory treatment.

'Somewhere in April' tells the tale of Baaba, a promiscuous woman and Yoofi, a suicidal boy who meet at the bar; each party holding distinct reasons for visiting the bar - Yoofi desperately in need of a listening ear and Baaba in need of a one night stand.

The play chronicles how the once-strangers turn lovers at first sight and navigates the series of emotional turmoils they face.

'Somewhere in April', originally written by Sandra Xorname and Wilhelmina Ofori, and directed by Ato Kwamina Hasford was first staged at the National Theatre (Folks Place) on July 26.

This play is only a testament to Abysmal Productions' determination and commitment to deepening mental health awareness in Ghana.