According to Michael Richards, Lecturer in Applied Health and Social Care at Edge Hill University in an article published on theconversation.com, schools need to be more open about the importance of menstruation and they need to be more sympathetic towards the stigma girls face. He is of the view for a start, schools should provide resources and information that girls can access. This will help them understand – rather than feel scared and fearful – what is happening to their bodies during puberty. At Inspire to Rise we second this and know this is one step towards taking the taboo out of menstruation, because to achieve gender equality on this issue, girls need to feel able to talk about their periods and challenge the discrimination that is associated with menstruation and developing girls bodies. And boys can play a big role in this – if they also get the right support and resources.
Our founder, Wendy Laryea moderated a panel discussion on the theme, “Young People & Mental Health in a Changing World”. It was a mental health school outreach organised by the Human Rights Advocacy Centre in collaboration with Mind Freedom Ghana and supported by STAR Ghana and other partners. The event was held at the St.Thomas Aquinas Senior High School in Accra.