Healthy Mind Pilot Project Starts Trial in Selected District Health Centres
On 15 August 2024 the Healthy Mind Pilot Project rolled out at three District Health Centres (DHC) and District Health Centre Expresses (DHCE). The project provides free community-based mental health assessment to DHC/DHCE members over the age of 18.
Mental health is not just a rising factor in Hong Kong, but also the rest of the world. In this article, we will talk about what the Healthy Mind Pilot Project is, what it provides, and how you can take control over your mental health with a comprehensive health insurance policy.
What is the Healthy Mind Pilot Project
The Healthy Mind Pilot Project was announced in the 2023 Policy Address as a way to “Optimize the Psychiatry Case Management Programme of the Hospital Authority”. The program is currently operating on a trial basis at the Tuen Mun DHC, Yau Tsim Mong DHCE, and the Eastern DHCE.
The key objectives of the Healthy Mind Pilot Project is to help detect early stages of psychological distress and enhance the ability of those affected in managing their mental wellness through low intensity interventions to prevent deterioration.
The program will be open to members of the designated DHC/DHCEs aged 18 or above suffering from psychological distress. Eligible members of the public will be able to benefit from free initial mental health assessments in the selected DHC and DHCE locations.
Eligible members can choose between three service modes: in-person interviews, phone interviews, and online interviews. Individuals showing mild signs of depression or anxiety will be referred to non-governmental organizations within the area for further assessments and follow-ups.
Individuals assessed as high-risk cases will be referred to community professional service providers, such as Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness (ICCMW), to receive multi-disciplinary support services.
Currently, there are two non-governmental organizations participating in this pilot project, The New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association (NLPRA) and the Mind Mental Health Hong Kong (MindHK).
About NLPRA
The New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association, NLPRA, is a non-governmental organization in Hong Kong dedicated to promoting mental health and providing rehabilitation services for individuals with mental health challenges.
They offer a range of services including residential care, vocational training, and community support programs. NLPRA aims to enhance the quality of life for people with mental illness and promote their integration into the community.
About MindHK
Mind Mental Health Hong Kong, better known as Mind HK, is a mental health charity organization in Hong Kong. Their mission is to improve the awareness of mental health and mental health conditions, remove associated stigma, and provide talking therapy to improve access to mental health resources in Hong Kong.
MindHK offers online resources, runs public awareness campaigns, and collaborates with various stakeholders to promote mental wellbeing in Hong Kong.
Rising Cases of Mental Illness in Hong Kong
Hong Kong, like many other developed cities, has seen increased prevalence of mental disorders, driving the demand for psychiatric services from the Hospital Authority (HA), according to a statistical highlight from the Research Office of the Legislative Council Secretariat.
The statistical highlight shows an increase in the number of patients with mental illness under the HA’s care from 270,700 in 2019-2020 to 305,700 in 2023-2024. Outpatient services provided by the specialist outpatient clinics are the most sought-after psychiatric service.
Take Control Over Your Mental Well-being with Health Insurance
With mental well-being becoming an increasingly important factor in Hong Kong, it is important to take control over your own state of mind. One way to do this is to secure your own comprehensive health insurance plan.
Health insurance with mental health coverage empowers you to prioritize your psychological well-being. Many plans now offer access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists at reduced costs, making professional support more affordable and accessible.These coverages often include both in-person and teletherapy options, allowing you to choose the format that best suits your needs and lifestyle.
By reducing financial barriers to mental health care, insurance enables you to seek help proactively, address concerns early, and develop coping strategies for long-term emotional resilience. With these benefits, you can take a more active role in managing your mental health, leading to improved overall quality of life.
If you are looking to secure your own private health insurance plans, Pacific Prime can help you. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, our insurance experts can help you navigate through complicated processes and present you with a plan that fits you.
Contact us today and get a free obligation-free plan comparison and free quote!
Born and raised in the cultural melting pot that is Hong Kong, and having studied at an international school, Vista has developed a multicultural perspective that he uses in his writingand strives to connect to people of different backgrounds.
In his free time, Vista enjoys immersing himself in different worlds, from video games to light novels and movies. His hobbies help him expand his writing style by putting himself in the point-of-view of different people and characters.
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