Hong Kong’s mental health crisis has escalated dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic, but alarmingly, troubling trends were already in motion. The World Health Organization now estimates over 1 billion people worldwide battle mental health conditions requiring support, underscoring an urgent global concern (WHO, 2025).
Locally, data from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention at the University of Hong Kong reveals a grim reality: suicide rates in Hong Kong have surged more than 22% since 2011, with suicide tragically the leading cause of death among those aged 15 to 24. A startling 1 in 4 youths in this age group face mental health challenges, with academic pressure topping their stressors, followed closely by work demands. Nearly 20% experienced suicidal thoughts within the past year (HKFP, 2023).
The workforce is also under immense psychological strain. An overwhelming 87% of Hong Kong employees report feeling stressed, with one in five describing this stress as unmanageable (Cigna 360 Hong Kong Well-being Survey, 2025). Work-related pressures, uncertain futures, and social isolation are key contributors, especially among young professionals and Gen Z, the most affected demographic facing elevated anxiety, depression, and burnout.
Mental health is far more than the absence of illness. The WHO defines it as a dynamic state of emotional, psychological, and social well-being that enables people to cope with everyday stresses and thrive. It exists on a continuum, shaped not only by challenges like job loss or divorce but also by positive transitions such as marriage.
Recognizing warning signs early is critical:
Physical symptoms like racing heart, fatigue, muscle pain, or sleep disturbances often signal unmanaged stress activating the body’s fight-or-flight response.
Emotionally, mood swings, irritability, persistent sadness, and feelings of hopelessness warn of deeper struggles.
Cognitive red flags include overthinking, poor concentration, and decision-making difficulties.
Socially, withdrawal, loneliness, and changes in interaction patterns indicate potential burnout.
The urgent takeaway: mental health demands deliberate, daily care. It’s essential to check in regularly with oneself—acknowledging feelings, understanding limits, and crafting protective strategies. Self-care isn’t indulgent; it’s vital. Simple habits like scheduling downtime, practicing mindfulness, engaging in positive self-talk, and nurturing sleep can fortify resilience.
Stress management is equally crucial—setting boundaries, saying no, breaking tasks into manageable chunks, and celebrating small victories help keep stress from becoming overwhelming. Lifestyle choices matter too: regular exercise, outdoor time, nutrition, hydration, and conscious digital detoxes bolster mental resilience.
Lastly, nobody should suffer in silence. Seeking support from trusted friends, family, support groups, and mental health professionals is a sign of strength, not weakness. Talking about struggles makes them more manageable—a truth captured by the saying, “What is shareable is bearable.”
Hong Kong’s mental health landscape not beyond hope. With awareness, proactive care, and compassion—for oneself and others—individuals can move from merely surviving to truly thriving in these challenging times.
The counsellors at Red Door are here to support you if you are not sure who to turn to or would value objective and unbiased guidance. Alternatively, below are a selection of resources and hotlines in Hong Kong to support you in starting a conversation. Please share this and help to raise visibility so that this information can reach more people.
Alcoholics Anonymous Hong Kong
9073 6922
Emotional Support Hotline – The Samaritan Befrienders
2389 2223 – Mon-Fri 6.30-10pm (English)
2389 2222 – 24 hours (Cantonese)
Suicide Prevention Hotline – The Samaritans
2896 0000 – 24 hours (Multilingual support)
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About the author.
Contact the RED DOOR reception to set up an appointment with Tanya. reception@reddoor.hk
References
Cigna. (2023, November). 2022 Cigna 360 Global Well-Being Survey [Press release]. https://www.cigna.com.hk/iwov-resources/docs/en/about-cigna/news/2022-Cigna-360-Global-Well-Being-Survey-Reveals-9-in-10-in-Hong-Kong-are-Stressed-and-Burnt-Out-EN.pdf
Mok, L. (2023, May 12). Up to 25% of young Hongkongers have suffered from mental health disorders, HKU research reveals. Hong Kong Free Press. https://hongkongfp.com/2023/05/12/up-to-25-of-young-hongkongers-suffered-from-mental-disorders-hku-research-reveals/#:~:text=inHong%20Kong-,Up%20to%2025%25%20of%20young%20Hongkongers%20have%20suffered%20from%20mental,stress%20from%202019%20to%202022.
The Samaritan Befrienders Hong Kong. (2023). The Samaritan Befrienders Hong Kong 2022 annual report: Empowering the inner-self. https://sbhk.org.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2022-Annual-Report-2.pdf
World Health Organization. (2022). COVID-19 pandemic triggers 25% increase in prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide. https://www.who.int/news/item/02-03-2022-covid-19-pandemic-triggers-25-increase-in-prevalence-of-anxiety-and-depression-worldwide
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