By Jones Anlimah
The Ghana Psychological Association (GPA) has called on government agencies to integrate psychosocial support into emergency response efforts following the recent floods that devastated parts of Accra and other areas of the country.
In a press release issued on July 1, the Association expressed sympathy to families affected by the floods of Monday, June 29, mourning those who lost their lives, including reported fatalities in Alajo.
The GPA said the approximately 140 millimetres of rainfall overwhelmed drainage systems, rendering major roads impassable in communities such as Abeka, Lapaz, Achimota, Dzorwulu, Tesano, Weija, Mallam and along the Kasoa stretch of the N1 Highway. It noted that beyond the destruction of homes and property, many survivors could experience psychological distress, including shock, grief, anxiety and sleep disturbances.
The Association urged the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other state agencies to ensure that psychological first aid forms part of relief operations alongside the provision of food, shelter and medical care.
According to the GPA, affected persons need emotional support in addition to physical assistance, adding that it is prepared to offer its expertise to help design and deliver psychosocial interventions.
The Association also announced that trained professionals are available to provide psychological first aid and counselling to individuals, families and emergency responders impacted by the floods through its helpline, 0553470086.
Meanwhile, the GPA has appealed to employers across Accra to adopt flexible workplace measures while flooding and damaged roads continue to disrupt movement.
It recommended relaxed lateness and attendance policies, flexible working hours, remote work where possible, and the suspension of penalties for workers unable to report to work on time due to unsafe commuting conditions.
The Association stressed that such measures would help reduce stress and anxiety among employees while protecting their wellbeing and safety.
The GPA reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners to strengthen Ghana’s disaster response systems, particularly in addressing the mental health consequences of emergencies.
