Hong Kong should do everything possible on youth mental health
Even with a slew of policies, the city must work harder to create a safe, supportive environment in which young people can thrive
A positive view, as education minister Christine Choi Yuk-lin said, is that the rise suggests parents are more willing to seek help for their children. That is encouraging. But there remain concerns about unreported cases. There is a need for the response to be comprehensive and sustained.
A three-tier scheme to identify secondary school students at risk, providing them with counselling or treatment, was launched in 2023 and has been extended to upper primary school pupils.
This is complemented by a mental health charter, promoting positive habits among children and the ability to cope with stresses and setbacks. It seeks to strengthen relationships between teachers, parents and students, so important in creating a supportive environment. More training is being provided.
There must be no let-up. Children and young adults face numerous challenges, including coping with the intense pressure of school work and exams, which must be better balanced.
Excessive social media use is increasingly recognised as a cause of anxiety and depression. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has recognised that it has a profound impact on the mental health of the young.