Counselling Psychologist Gloria Addo Sarkodie has urged the public to respect the privacy of grieving families and allow them the space to mourn without unnecessary interference.
Speaking on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey on Monday, August 11, Mrs. Sarkodie explained that giving bereaved individuals time and space to express their emotions is an essential part of the healing process.
She outlined the five stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—emphasising that each person experiences them differently.
“In as much as we are trying to grieve with them, we allow them space for expression. We should allow them to cry. If they want to share memories of the last ones, they should be allowed to do so. If others who would want to sit in silence, they should be allowed to do so without feeling rushed in or people just getting to them,” she said.
She advised that instead of asking broad questions such as, “What do you need?” or “What do you want me to do?”, friends and relatives should offer specific, practical support.
“You can say, ‘So, what can I do? Can I help you run the children to school? Can I pick them up?’ Can I assist you with the home? That is people who are closer to them,” she noted, adding that assistance is also crucial during funeral preparations.
Her remarks follow the tragic loss of eight government officials in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, an incident that has plunged the nation into mourning.
The crash claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
