Multilingualism as a Tool for Destressing: Evidence from Northern Ghana

This chapter explores the role of multilingualism as a tool for destressing among the working class in Northern Ghana, with a focus on how linguistic practices contribute to wellbeing. Using a purposive sample of 51 formally educated multilingual participants in Tamale, we examine how individuals leverage their multilingual abilities to manage stress, particularly in the home environment. Data were collected through interviews and analysed qualitatively, revealing that multilingualism is not only a means of communication but also a significant factor in reducing stress and fostering social cohesion. Participants reported using their linguistic skills to navigate complex social spaces, such as markets and workplaces, where language diversity facilitates negotiation, relationship building, and conflict resolution. The findings highlight the emotional and psychological benefits of multilingualism, especially in personal contexts, an area often underexplored in prior research. The study’s results underscore the need for further exploration of multilingualism’s role in mental health and its policy implications, particularly regarding the development of language policies that integrate the wellbeing advantages of linguistic diversity.