This study investigates the complex relationship between mental health outcomes and professional identity among Ghanaian teachers approaching retirement. Using a mixed-methods approach with 287 pre-retirement teachers across three regions of Ghana, the research reveals significant correlations between professional identity strength and mental health outcomes. Quantitative findings demonstrate moderate levels of anxiety (M = 8.3, SD = 4.2) and depression (M = 6.7, SD = 3.8), with professional identity showing significant negative correlations with both anxiety (r = −.42, p < .001) and depression (r = −.38, p < .001). Qualitative analysis identifies four major themes: erosion of professional purpose, financial insecurity concerns, loss of social connections, and identity reconstruction challenges. The findings contribute to understanding career transitions in developing country contexts and inform educational policy recommendations.
William Otu (Wed,) studied this question.