{"id":2651,"date":"2023-06-11T18:00:36","date_gmt":"2023-06-11T10:00:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.hk\/blog\/?p=2651"},"modified":"2023-06-12T16:15:49","modified_gmt":"2023-06-12T08:15:49","slug":"mental-health-resources-hong-kong","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.hk\/blog\/mental-health-resources-hong-kong\/","title":{"rendered":"An Overview of Mental Health Resources in Hong Kong"},"content":{"rendered":"

Health is not only the absence of disease or illness, but is a \u201cstate of complete physical, mental, and social well-being<\/a>\u201d, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite this, mental health conditions are often stigmatized in society. As mental health charity Mind Hong Kong<\/a> states, more than half of Hong Kongers surveyed believe they will be penalized at work for talking about their mental health challenges.<\/p>\n

Given that one-third of Hong Kong employees struggle with mental health problems<\/a>, it\u2019s fair to say that a vast majority of those suffering may be left without the support they require. If this is something you\u2019re struggling with at the moment, you should know that there are plenty of mental health resources in the SAR.<\/p>\n

In this Pacific Prime Hong Kong<\/a> article, we\u2019ll signpost you to some useful resources.<\/p>\n

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\"Individual<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n\n

Where to Find Mental Health Resources<\/h2>\n

In Hong Kong, 1 in 7 people<\/a> will develop a common mental illness at some point in their lives. Three-quarters of people who have a mental illness don\u2019t seek professional help, , and many will continue to suffer because of embarrassment and lack of knowledge about their condition.<\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re suffering from work-related stress, dealing with financial hardship, or faced with any number of triggers, you may find yourself in need of mental health support. As a guide to mental healthcare services, the following provides organizations and programs from the public, private, and voluntary healthcare sectors. This list is not an exhaustive one, but it\u2019s a good start if you\u2019re unsure of where to find mental health resources in Hong Kong.<\/p>\n

Hospital Authority<\/h3>\n

If you\u2019d like to seek non-urgent assistance at public hospitals or clinics that offer psychiatric services, you\u2019ll need to first see a primary care provider<\/a>, which is the first level of care. Your primary care provider will assess your needs and refer you to a specialist. Waiting time can be long, but it\u2019s a more affordable option than going private. On the other hand, if you require urgent assistance, you should go to any public hospital\u2019s emergency department or ring 999.<\/p>\n

Early Assessment Service for Young People with Psychosis (EASY) Program<\/h4>\n

For those between the ages of 15 to 64 with symptoms of psychosis, there is also the EASY Program<\/a> that offers support. It\u2019s vital to seek help early on, as this lowers the chances of the condition becoming severe or any further complications developing.<\/p>\n

Castle Peak Hospital for Substance Abuse and Mental Health<\/h4>\n

For those suffering from substance abuse or mental health problems, especially children, adolescents, and the elderly, Castle Peak Hospital<\/a> is a well-known option. Chances are that patients with these conditions will be referred here.<\/p>\n

Social Welfare Department (and Other Government Authorities)<\/h3>\n

The Social Welfare Department offers clinical psychology services free of charge. There is a hotline<\/a>, which can be used to make an appointment or for immediate assistance. Alternatively, you can also visit the Integrated Family Services <\/a>Center in your area for a referral to one of the neighbourhood Clinical Psychology Units. Likewise, for substance abuse and drug counselling, there are a few specific resources:<\/p>\n