The Ghana Immigration Service has introduced a mental health training programme aimed at addressing stress, depression, and emotional burnout among officers working in high-pressure border security environments.
The programme is being spearheaded by DCOI Osei-Bonsu, who says the initiative is critical to improving both the welfare and operational effectiveness of officers.
Speaking on the development, DCOI Osei-Bonsu explained that the demanding nature of immigration duties makes psychological support essential for personnel.
“Our officers work in very demanding environments where they are required to make quick and sometimes difficult decisions under pressure. Without proper mental health support, the risk of burnout and stress-related conditions is very high,” he said.
He added that the programme is designed to equip officers with practical tools to manage emotional strain and maintain peak performance.
“This training is focused on helping officers recognise early signs of stress, build resilience, and know when and how to seek help. Mental well-being is now a key part of operational readiness,” he noted.
The initiative includes modules on stress management, peer support systems, and access to professional counselling services for officers who may need additional psychological assistance.
Participants in the training have described it as timely, saying it provides them with coping strategies to deal with the pressures of frontline duties.
“The work can be very stressful, especially during peak operational periods. This training is helping us understand how to manage that pressure better,” one participant said.
The Ghana Immigration Service says the programme will be expanded in phases to cover all regional commands and major border posts across the country.
