Leading mental health professionals and advocates have stressed the critical need to foster psychological safety among both children and adults, during a thought-provoking panel discussion at the Wholesome Mind Summit 2025, held at the Labadi Beach Hotel, Accra on Friday, October 10.
The session, themed “Psychological Safety: In Children and Adults,” was moderated by Dr. Seth Mowasi Aidoo, a clinical psychologist, who guided a deep and reflective dialogue on the state of mental wellbeing in Ghana and the urgent need to create supportive environments that promote openness, empathy, and trust.
Opening the discussion, Dr. Aidoo emphasized that psychological safety, defined as a climate in which individuals feel safe to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment or punishment—is a cornerstone of healthy development and national resilience. He noted that cultivating such safety begins within the home, extends to schools, workplaces, and communities, and ultimately contributes to national wellbeing.
“Children who grow up in emotionally validating environments tend to develop stronger coping skills, self-esteem, and social awareness,” Dr. Aidoo remarked. “Likewise, adults in psychologically safe spaces, be it in offices, relationships, or communities, are more innovative, cooperative, and mentally healthy.”
Collaboration
Panelists drawn from diverse fields including clinical psychology, education, and social work explored how stigmatization, cultural expectations, and limited awareness continue to undermine psychological safety in Ghana. They called for stronger collaboration among educators, parents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to build systems that nurture emotional intelligence and psychological resilience from an early age.
One of the key takeaways from the conversation was the need for public education on mental health literacy and the inclusion of psychosocial support in schools and workplaces. The panelists also urged media institutions to use their platforms to challenge stereotypes and promote positive narratives about mental health recovery and wellbeing.
The panel formed part of a broader lineup of activities at the Wholesome Mind Summit 2025, an event organized under the banner “The Wholesome Mind XPERIENCE” and powered by VINT and Aletheia. The summit brought together key stakeholders in the mental health ecosystem, including health practitioners, educators, policymakers, and private sector leaders, to commemorate World Mental Health Day 2025 and inspire collective national action on mental wellbeing.
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