Fogo/Accident: Psychologists advise against postponing the start of the academic year because of the tragedy

São Filipe, 11 September (Inforpress) – Psychologists who are part of the support teams assisting the communities affected by the accident on 5 September in Fogo advise against postponing the start of the school year, as they believe that returning to school can help the children’s recovery.

Health Minister and Crisis Cabinet spokesperson Lúcio Miranda announced today that the recommendation from psychologists is not to postpone the start of classes for another week, although each child's situation should be assessed individually.

“We must not delay the start of the school year,” said the spokesperson, who explained that children who show signs of anxiety or refuse to return to school may have their start date postponed, whilst for those who wish to return to school, doing so could be beneficial.

According to Lúcio Miranda, the presence of friends and classmates at school could contribute to the psychological recovery process of the children affected by the accident.

JR/CP

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