Overview of Adolescent Mental Health Problems in Hong Kong - Patricia E. CHOI Se Fong HUNG
Patricia E. CHOI
Associate Consultant, Kwai Chung Hospital
Se Fong HUNG
Hospital Chief Executive, Kwai Chung Hospital
[Abstract] Concern is growing over the rise of adolescent mental health problems in Hong Kong. An estimated 16% of Chinese adolescents have psychiatric disorders, and there has also been an alarming increase in youth suicide and substance abuse. But despite the substantial evidence for emerging adolescent mental health problems, many of the mental health needs of adolescents remain unmet. Key challenges to addressing mental health needs include a lack of resources in the healthcare system, a shortage of manpower, the stigma associated with mental disorders, and a lack of clear policy to revamp our existing services and to bring organized quality mental health care to our patients.
[Keywords] adolescence; psychiatric disorders; suicide; substance abuse; tiered system
Current Situation and Service for Young People Suffering from Early Psychosis in Hong Kong - J. Q. XU Christy L. M. HUI Gloria H. Y. WONG Jennifer Y. M. TANG May M. L. LAM Cindy P. Y. CHIU Eric Y. H. CHEN
J. Q. XU
Christy L. M. HUI
Gloria H. Y. WONG
Jennifer Y. M. TANG
May M. L. LAM
Cindy P. Y. CHIU
Eric Y. H. CHEN
Department of Psychiatry, The University of Hong Kong
[Abstract] This article outlines the current development and major concerns surrounding early psychosis among young people in Hong Kong. It begins by describing the specialized early intervention services available since 2001, then highlights some important, Hong Kong-derived data so as to enrich our understanding of the needs of this particular group of patients. The latest public awareness programmes designed to reduce stigma in the general public are also discussed. In the conclusion, a future plan for service development is suggested based on the evaluation of the current early intervention services in Hong Kong.
[Keywords] youth psychosis; case management; early detection; early intervention; public awareness
Overview of Service Models and Treatment Strategies for Adolescent Addictive Behaviours - Siu Man HSU Wai Kwok LUK Cecilia K. K. NG
Siu Man HSU
Supervisor, Youth Wellness Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Wai Kwok LUK
Unit In-Charge, Jockey Club Jat Min S.P.O.T., The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Cecilia K. K. NG
Project Officer, NetWise Support Centre for Families, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
[Abstract] The problem of adolescent addictive behaviours has aroused public concern in recent years. This article outlines different perspectives and models in perceiving these behaviours. Quoting examples, it also introduces a new treatment model in promoting the “Wellness” of one-being using a theoretical base from the bio-psychosocial perspective.
[Keywords] addiction; wellness; bio-psychosocial model
Outcome Study of School Programmes for Reducing Stigma and Promoting Mental Health - Sania S. W. YAU Katrina H. W. PUN Jessica P. S. TANG
Sania S. W. YAU
Katrina H. W. PUN
Jessica P. S. TANG
New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association
[Abstract] Although stigma towards mental illness creates barriers that hinder help-seeking, social integration, and recovery, target-specific stigma-reduction programmes are scarce. This paper presents the preliminary findings on a stigma-reduction and mental-health-promotion project designed for young students in secondary schools. The results indicate significant alleviation of stigma towards mental illness across 1,040 students aged 12-19 participating in an eco-tour, which involved an interactive learning activity with people in recovery, and the school-based Health Link Green Club. Participants in the eco-tour also reported decreased concerns over self-stigma linked to seeking help from professionals when facing mental health problems. Qualitative data generated from participants also revealed changes in attitude towards people with mental illness.
[Keywords] stigma; mental illness; youth
The Development Trends, Theories, and Perspectives on Substance Abuse and Psychiatric Comorbidity (Dual Diagnosis) in Adolescents - Blanka C. C. KWAN Kam-shing YIP
Blanka C. C. KWAN
Doctoral Student, Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Kam-shing YIP
Professor, Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
[Abstract] The co-occurrence of mental illness and substance abuse is among the most prevalent mental disorders worldwide. It has become more significant in the United States, Europe, and Hong Kong, and it presents complex issues for both mental health and substance abuse practitioners. This paper explores the historical and conceptual issues on dual diagnosis. In addition, different perspectives on dual diagnosis are crucial for developing public policies and programs to address client needs on the road to recovery. The dominant view on dual diagnosis has been the medical perspective. This paper describes three more perspectives: moralistic, psychosocial risk, and phenomenological. This broader view on dual diagnosis will benefit both policy and service development for this population.
[Keywords] dual diagnosis; psychiatric comorbidity; substance abuse; mental disorders; adolescent
Mental Health Community Support Services for Adolescents - Wing Hoi LAI Hui Fang LIN
Wing Hoi LAI
Service Head, Youth and Community Service, Caritas-Hong Kong
Hui Fang LIN
Project/Research Officer, Youth and Community Service, Caritas-Hong Kong
[Abstract] Adolescent mental health has become an important issue for social workers and policy advocates around the world. This article gives an overview of the mental health community support services provided to adolescents by the Caritas Youth and Community Service. The agency’s values, intervention strategies, and social worker roles are discussed, as well as the problems and issues involved in delivering services. Finally, suggestions are offered for the future development of support services to promote the healthy development of adolescents.
[Keywords] adolescent; mental health; community support; rehabilitation service
The Analysis, Prevention, and Intervention of Youth Mental and Emotional Health Issues--From the Perspective of Positive Psychology - Anthony K. K. TONG Priscillia H. Y. CHIU
Anthony K. K. TONG
Clinical Psychologist, Department of Clinical Psychology, Kowloon East Cluster, Hospital Authority
Chairman, United Centre of Emotional Health and Positive Living
Priscillia H. Y. CHIU
Registered Social Worker, United Centre of Emotional Health and Positive Living
[Abstract] Mental health and emotional problems are more prevalent among youths nowadays due to changes in family structure, peer relationships, information technology, working environments, and the education system. Although traditional psychology provides a number of effective ways to handle emotional problems, these strategies are usually problem and symptom oriented. This article discusses and suggests new ways of treating and preventing mental health problems among youths using a strength-oriented positive psychology approach.
[Keywords] youth; mental health; stress; positive psychology
Online Suicide-related Information in Hong Kong: Perspectives from Youth Suicide Prevention - Qijin CHENG
Qijin CHENG
PhD Candidate, Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong
[Abstract] This paper systematically examines suicide-related information on Hong Kong websites based on a review of the challenges and opportunities presented by the Internet for youth suicide prevention. It discusses potential influences from these websites and ways we can cope with them. The paper anticipates providing a benchmark for further research and practice on online suicide prevention in Hong Kong.
[Keywords] Internet; website; suicide prevention; youth; Hong Kong
Mental Health Promotion and Treatment for Adolescents: A School-Community Model - Chung-Yi HU
Chung-Yi HU
Department of Guidance and Counseling, National Changhua University of Education
[Abstract] This paper analyzes the mental health of adolescents in Taiwan and reviews the literature on “resilience” and mental health of at-risk adolescents. The author suggests that different professional practitioners should be integrated into the mental health team. Practitioners should connect school and community resources, and apply a “school-community model” to mental health promotion and treatment for adolescents.
[Keywords] adolescent; mental health; resilience; school-community model
The Application of Guided Imagery to Reduce High School Students’ Test Anxiety - Yin-Hsing TSENG Meng Ling WANG
Yin-Hsing TSENG
Associate Professor, Department of Counseling, National Chiayi University
Meng Ling WANG
School Counselor, Aletheia University
[Abstract] The purpose of this study was to explore the theoretical basis of applying guided imagery techniques, such as designing a guided imagery programme, to reduce students’ test anxiety. The authors hope to provide researchers and practitioners with a feasible programme to use in related areas. The core of the training programme includes progressive relaxation training, guided imagery, and positive self-talk. It is hypothesized that students will reduce text anxiety by practicing the skills learned in the programme.
[Keywords] high school students; test anxiety; guided imagery