Mental well-being of children and youth is an increasing concern in Hong Kong. Despite these concerns, the attitudes of acceptance and awareness of mental challenges and illness among the public remain generally low.
- 53% of students 15,000+ surveyed showed symptoms of depression; 25% displayed high levels of anxiety;
- 38% of 2,500+ students surveyed tried to suppress their negative emotions; 54% believed that expressive negative emotions to others will damage peer relationship.
TARGET POPULATION & AREA
• Under-privileged children aged 6 – 18 years
• Parents, caregivers, teachers, and social workers as a support system
• Low-income districts in Hong Kong
MAKING A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER
Save the Children Hong Kong has been delivering programmes in the last two years to ensure local children are protected from harm.
In collaboration with local partners, below are a few examples of our responses in mental health:
- Northern New Territories: peer-support system with “youth ambassadors” to provide emotional support; teachers, parents, and caregivers sessions.
- Tsuen Wan: children-focused and mental wellness-oriented educational kit for primary school children using picture books, animation, and wellness online channels.
- New Territories East: interactive programmes for secondary school students, integrating mindfulness, expressive art, and exercise.
- Wong Tai Sin: therapeutic play to foster parent-child interactions, including e.g. board games, game sport, music therapy; parents’ support groups.