NORTHBROOK, Illinois — Dr. Theophilus Frimpong, Director of Nursing at Shalom Park, urged parents to monitor their children’s emotional well-being and advised young people facing mental health challenges to seek support. Dr. Frimpong delivered these remarks at a youth town hall during the COBAANA 2026 Convention in Northbrook, Illinois. He addressed both the positive and negative impacts of social media on youth mental health. Speaking on the theme “I Have a Voice,” Dr. Frimpong stated that all young people should be heard and supported. “Your life matters, and everyone deserves attention,” he told participants, stressing that experiencing mental health challenges should not leave young people feeling that they have to deal with their problems alone.
Parents urged to listen to their children
Dr. Frimpong advised parents to foster an environment where children can discuss emotional challenges openly. He noted that excessive social media use affects both young people and parents. Parents may become distracted by online activities and overlook attempts by their children to communicate. He recommended that parents spend time with their children, listen to their concerns, and observe changes in behavior. Dr. Frimpong identified listening as a key initial step in supporting young people experiencing emotional difficulties.
Social media can help — and harm
Dr. Frimpong noted that social media platforms can provide benefits such as improved communication and information access. He also cautioned that excessive or unhealthy use may negatively impact young people’s mental health. He advised young people to seek support from parents, trusted adults, or other appropriate sources rather than relying only on social media for serious personal or emotional issues. His message to participants was simple: “If you see something, say something.” He stated that young people who observe peers struggling should encourage them to seek help or inform a trusted adult.
“Seeking help is a sign of strength”
Dr. Frimpong addressed the stigma that can be associated with mental health discussions. He told the youth that asking for help should not be regarded as a sign of weakness. Rather, recognizing a problem and seeking support can be an important step in accessing assistance before issues escalate to find trusted people with whom they can openly share their challenges.
Ghanaian youth abroad face cultural pressures
Dr. Frimpong highlighted the experiences of children and young people relocating from Ghana to the United States. He noted that some may face challenges with identity and cultural adjustment as they balance family expectations and adapt to a new environment. emotional well-being and reinforces the need for parents to communicate with their children rather than assume that they are adjusting without difficulty. The discussion was part of youth-focused activities at the COBAANA 2026 Convention, addressing mental health, family communication, and responsible social media use among young people in the Bono and Ahafo diaspora communities. Dr. Frimpong emphasized the need to create homes and communities where young people are heard and where seeking help for mental health concerns is supported.
By Michael Abisa
September 7, 2026
