The recent horrifying stabbing incident at Diamond Hill’s Hollywood Plaza has drawn significant attention from society, reigniting concerns about support for individuals with mental illnesses in Hong Kong.
According to a survey conducted by my political party, the A4 Alliance, respondents scored an average of 54 points on the mental health index, indicating a concerning level of well-being. Disturbingly, 80.5 percent of participants expressed their support for the government’s regular implementation of a “mental health census” for all residents of Hong Kong, along with the call for long-term policies addressing mental health concerns and the need for enhanced training for “care teams”.
The survey findings shed light on the sources of stress faced by Hong Kong residents, with nearly 50 percent citing health issues and work-related pressures as primary stressors, while 40 percent identified economic strains in their daily lives. When confronted with mental health problems or stress, approximately 60 percent turned to personal interests and hobbies such as aerobic exercises and music to alleviate their mental burdens. Another 40 percent sought solace in confiding in friends or embracing social support, while approximately 30 percent resorted to mindfulness techniques as a coping mechanism.
Regarding mental health support services, respondents indicated a preference for nonpharmaceutical treatments, with 40 percent highlighting the efficacy of art therapy, music therapy, and other similar interventions. Meanwhile, 37 percent favored one-on-one psychological therapy or counseling, and 25 percent opted for educational workshops and telephone counseling. However, the survey also revealed prevailing concerns among participants, as close to 60 percent feared discrimination when seeking mental health assistance; approximately 50 percent admitted a lack of awareness regarding available support services; and roughly 40 percent criticized the scarcity of resources in public specialist facilities, leading to extended waiting times and financial burdens.
As a modern international metropolis, Hong Kong must prioritize the mental well-being of its residents. Prompt action is needed from the government to establish long-term health policies, strengthen mental health surveys, and support services. Collaborating with community stakeholders such as district councils and care teams will ensure superior mental healthcare provisions for all Hong Kong residents, ultimately fostering a healthier and more prosperous society
To address these pressing issues, several recommendations have been put forth. First and foremost, it is imperative for the government to conduct regular mental health surveys encompassing the entire population of Hong Kong. The proposed approach involves a comprehensive citywide assessment every five years, allowing for accurate tracking of residents’ mental well-being. Moreover, the government should allocate resources to support local “care teams” and equip them with mental health first aid training. This collaborative effort, including district councils, neighborhood associations, care teams, and hometown associations, can assist in conducting mental health surveys. Additionally, by leveraging the capabilities of district health centers, the government can expand pilot programs to include all centers and health stations, effectively identifying “invisible” psychiatric patients and providing prompt treatment. Clinical social workers and psychiatric counselors can assume the role of mental health service providers at these centers, while comprehensive community centers can facilitate the referral process for cases requiring follow-up from the Hospital Authority’s community psychiatric services, with prior consent from service users. Another crucial aspect involves subsidizing patients’ access to long-acting injections as part of their treatment, particularly for those lacking insight into their conditions. By including long-acting injections within subsidized or partially subsidized programs and allocating additional resources to aid patients and their families, the government can alleviate their financial burdens.
Furthermore, expanding public-private collaborations is of utmost importance. The government should explore the establishment of a sustainable fund to subsidize economically disadvantaged Hong Kong residents awaiting specialist consultations at public psychiatric clinics. This initiative would enable them to seek treatment from designated private psychiatrists, with the subsidy covering 80 percent of consultation and medication costs, up to a maximum limit of HK$2,000 ($256) per visit. Simultaneously, raising public awareness of mental illnesses and fostering an inclusive environment to combat stigmatization are vital. This can be achieved through the organization of more workshops, allowing residents to gain firsthand experience of the lives and challenges faced by individuals with mental illnesses, ultimately reducing prejudice.
Historically, the government has lacked a comprehensive and long-term mental health policy framework, responding to public concerns only following tragic incidents like the one at Diamond Hill’s Hollywood Plaza. However, prior to policy formulation, it is crucial to gather more data. Although some may question the five-year interval for conducting mental health surveys, it is important to allow policies sufficient time to take root and demonstrate their effectiveness. Thus, a five-year time frame is considered optimal.
As a modern international metropolis, Hong Kong must prioritize the mental well-being of its residents. Prompt action is needed from the government to establish long-term health policies, strengthen mental health surveys, and support services. Collaborating with community stakeholders such as district councils and care teams will ensure superior mental healthcare provisions for all Hong Kong residents, ultimately fostering a healthier and more prosperous society.
The author is a member of Hong Kong’s Legislative Council.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.