A new program is being set up to help and guide teenagers in Hong Kong towards their mental health journey. Called as the "Coolminds" project, the KELY Support Group and Mind HK will be holding several activities to deliver mental health information to pupils, teachers, and parents, and to promote mental health literacy.
Charlotte Pang, a 16-year-old grade 11 student, thinks her peers nowadays are facing a lot of difficulties and pressure, making the mental health of young people at risk, the South China Morning Post reported. She said that although there are many opportunities in Hong Kong, a lot of stress comes with it since everyone is always trying to compete. The young pupil believes that teenagers in the city should have someone to talk to regarding their emotional problems, and they should be seeking support.
Now, that help would be more obtainable with the Coolminds program. The project will train the teachers, educators, as well as parents in identifying and recognizing the possible signs and symptoms of mental health problems among young people. The program, which was funded by Operation Santa Claus, includes a discussion on stress management, sleep strategies, and other ways of how to help teenagers and youngsters.
According to Hannah Reidy, the CEO of Mind HK, the team aims to raise public awareness of the mental health of young people. She said that their previously conducted research revealed that there's a high level of stigma and a low level of mental health awareness, and the majority of the people believed the situation was not acceptable, so they wanted to change it instead.
The executive director of the KELY Support Group, Sky Siu, said their project helps teenagers in coping with the stigma linked with the mental health problems. She said the most important part of the project is allowing young people to confront and openly share their stories.
As soon as they share their stories with their community and peers, they'll be empowered to stand up and say that it's not about stigma issue, but it's something about that everyone should be talking about. The team will also bring other international speakers to sessions for student, educators, and parents, and they will be sharing what's the best practice to guide mental health of youths.
Siu noted their program wants to break the idea that only clinical professionals can provide effective support. She said the process also starts with the people around them; when they become empathetic listeners and willing to hear their struggles. Siu added that a mother, a father, a brother, a sister, a cousin, or a friend could all be there and support someone who is struggling with mental health.
