Free mental health checks for those hit by depression, anxiety

Wallis Wang

A government pilot scheme on mental health has been launched to offer free mental health assessment at three district health centers.

Known as the healthy mind pilot project, it will refer people showing mild symptoms of depression or anxiety to non-governmental organizations for further evaluation and follow-up support for timely assistance.

According to a Health Bureau statement issued yesterday, the public can visit the district health centers in Tuen Mun, Yau Tsim Mong and Eastern for preliminary assessment under the pilot project.

It said trained staff at the centers will conduct preliminary assessments using questionnaires designed to identify risks related to emotional distress, particularly depression and anxiety.

Individuals identified as requiring further assistance will be referred to NGOs such as the New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association or Mind HK.

Those with mild to moderate symptoms will be given access to low-intensity psychological therapy, including guided self-help and psychoeducational groups.

More comprehensive and professional care will be provided to high-risk cases.

"The government aims to position district health centers as coordinators of primary healthcare services and case managers for this pilot project," a spokesman said.

The initiative seeks to deliver timely and appropriate mental health support within the community.

Dicky Chow Ka-chun, head of health care and social innovation at Our Hong Kong Foundation, expressed support for the project.

He said that free assessments and referral services at district centers will help people access timely support and alleviate pressure on specialist services.

Chow also suggested establishing an interdisciplinary data communication system connecting district centers, NGOs and community mental wellness centers.

This system would help ensure that patients do not have to repeatedly explain their mental health issues, thus reducing their stress levels .