National grief and psychological recovery: MHA reacts to tragic military helicopter crash

Mental Health Authority mourns tragic death of 8 fallen heroes

On August 6, 2025, Ghana was struck by tragedy when a military helicopter crashed near Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region. The incident claimed the lives of eight Ghanaians — five senior government officials and three Ghana Armed Forces personnel. The devastating loss of these public servants in the line of duty has sent shockwaves across the country, stirring national grief and prompting a call for psychological healing.

The Mental Health Authority of Ghana, under the Ministry of Health, issued an official press statement on August 8, extending its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, affected institutions, and the entire nation.

Compounding tragedies and emotional fallout

The helicopter crash came on the heels of another recent tragedy — the death of 15 young individuals in an accident on the Juaso-Nkawkaw road. These back-to-back incidents have compounded the nation’s emotional burden.

According to the Mental Health Authority, such traumatic losses often trigger a range of psychological reactions, including shock, confusion, anxiety, helplessness, and deep sorrow. These emotional responses are natural, but they can also be overwhelming — especially when compounded by media coverage and public discourse.

Support for the bereaved and affected communities

The Mental Health Authority has pledged its full support for individuals and communities dealing with the aftermath of these events. A 24/7 toll-free helpline (0800 678 678) has been made available, staffed by trained mental health professionals prepared to offer crisis counselling and psychological support.

Mental health facilities across the country are also open and accessible, offering services such as one-on-one counselling, group therapy, and crisis intervention. The Authority encourages all who are experiencing emotional distress, whether directly or indirectly affected, to seek professional help without hesitation.

Call for responsible media and public engagement

In its statement, the Authority made a passionate appeal to the media and public to handle the situation with sensitivity and care. It urged restraint in sharing graphic images or speculative commentary, which could worsen the emotional toll on grieving families and the wider public.

“Empathy and discretion must always guide our communications,” the Authority emphasized, reminding the public that the dignity and privacy of the bereaved must be upheld at all times.

Encouraging national unity and resilience

Recognizing that healing is a collective process, the Mental Health Authority has called on all sectors of society — government institutions, religious bodies, community leaders, and civil society — to support the nation’s emotional recovery. By creating safe spaces for expression and promoting a culture of compassion and mental resilience, Ghana can begin to heal together.

The Authority also reminded the public that grief, though deeply painful, does not have to be endured in isolation. Professional help is available, and seeking it is a sign of strength, not weakness.

A final tribute

As Ghana continues to mourn, the Mental Health Authority closed its statement with a solemn tribute to the departed. “May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace. May their families find strength and comfort in the compassion of a grieving nation, and may our collective response reflect unity, resilience, and shared humanity.”

Signed: Dr Josephine Stiles Darko
Acting Head of Communication
Mental Health Authority Ghana