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STATEMENT: Mind HK Responds to Recent Stabbing Incident and Urges Responsible Media Coverage of Mental Health Conditions

04/06/2023
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*Mind HK Statement: Mind HK Responds to Recent Stabbing Incident and Urges Responsible Media Coverage of Mental Health Conditions*

 

(Hong Kong, 4 June 2023)- Local mental health charity Mind HK extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the two individuals who tragically lost their lives in the recent stabbing incident at a mall in Hong Kong. We are aware that the attacker was reported to have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia and was seeking professional support, and we would like to address the resulting discussion surrounding the incident.

 

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition characterised by symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganised behaviour, which can lead to a decline in various aspects of daily functioning. The vast majority of people diagnosed with schizophrenia are not violent, and generalising or stigmatising individuals with this condition can further isolate them and discourage them from seeking the help they need and deserve. Providing an inclusive and non-stigmatizing environment is crucial for promoting recovery and well-being for those affected by this condition.

 

This incident may raise concerns regarding the link between mental illness, particularly schizophrenia, and violence. However, research indicates only 3% to 5% of violent acts can be attributed to persons with severe mental illness, and individuals living with mental health conditions are significantly more likely to be victims of violence themselves (SAMHSA, 2023).

 

“In the face of this unfortunate incident, let us always remember: the majority of violent acts are not born from mental illness, and most of those suffering from serious mental illness pose no danger. We must resist the urge to generalise a single tragic event onto all those facing mental health challenges.“ – Dr Candice Powell, CEO, Mind HK and Clinical Psychologist 

 

“Violent behaviour in individuals with mental illness is often the result of a complex interplay of stress factors rather than the mental illness itself. It is important that we combat stigma and promote understanding and support, so we can help to create a more inclusive and compassionate society for all individuals, regardless of their mental health status.” – Odile Thiang, Lead Clinical Advisor (Anti-stigma and Training) 

 

Mind HK’s research found that 3 in 5 people diagnosed with a mental health condition in Hong Kong reported that they have never disclosed their struggles to anyone, with 43% reporting concerns of stigmatisation and discrimination (Mind HK, 2021). It is crucial to avoid stigmatising those who suffer from mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, and to ensure that individuals experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia or other mental health conditions, or caring for someone who is, can seek the appropriate support without fear of judgement or discrimination. 

 

In light of the graphic images and videos circulating, we encourage the public and the media to be mindful of their own mental health when exposed to such content. Viewing distressing material can significantly impact an individual’s wellbeing, and it is essential to seek support and resources if needed.

 

We call on the media to exercise caution in the footage they release and the language they use surrounding mental illness in order to promote a more empathetic and understanding discourse. The media has considerable influence on shaping the narrative about mental health and mental health experiences; it is imperative that reporting on specific mental health conditions is done with careful consideration of the implications of perpetuating mental health stigma and discrimination.

 

Mind HK’s vision is to ensure that no one in Hong Kong has to face a mental health problem alone, and it is evident stigma is a pervasive barrier for people seeking help in the community. We welcome the Hong Kong Secretary of Health’s comments on not stigmatising individuals facing mental health conditions and on encouraging people facing symptoms to seek the appropriate help. 

 

For more information about mental health support and resources available in Hong Kong, please visit our website at www.mindhk.org.

 

Additional resources:  

Mindframe mental health reporting guidelines: 

https://mindframe.org.au/guidelines 

 

Mindframe guidelines on media reporting of severe mental illness in the context of violence and crime: 

https://mindframe.org.au/mindframe-guidelines-severe-mental-illness-violence-and-crime

 

SPRC Style Guide: Reporting on Mental Health 

https://sprc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/mental-health-reporting-style-guide.pdf

 

Additional resources on the mental health of journalists: 
https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/2023/02/26/mental-health-for-journalists/

 

Data on mental health stigma in Hong Kong: 

https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/press-releases/mind-hk-and-mindset-launch-more-than-a-label-to-combat-the-stigma-in-hong-kong-against-mental-illness/ 

 

More tips on taking care of your wellbeing :

TC: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/zh-hant/mental-health-a-to-z/如何改善精神健康/改善精神健康的貼士/

ENG: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/mental-health-a-to-z/mental-wellbeing-2/tips-for-improving-your-mental-wellbeing/

 

About Schizophrenia: 

https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/mental-health-a-to-z/schizophrenia/about-schizophrenia/

 

Helplines/services: 

Urgent services: 

TC:  https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/zh-hant/find-help-now/

ENG: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/find-help-now/ 

 

Non-urgent services: 

TC: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/zh-hant/community-directory/ 

ENG: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/community-directory/ 

 

About Mind HK 

Mind HK (Mind Mental Health Hong Kong Limited) is an S88 registered charity (91/16471), which was launched in 2017. The organisation’s vision is to ensure that no one in Hong Kong has to face a mental health problem alone. Through resources, training, and outreach campaigns and programmes, the work of Mind HK helps to raise awareness of mental health and reduce the associated stigma, with the aim of achieving the best mental health for all in Hong Kong. With existing collaboration and research efforts, Mind HK is here to support Hong Kong in becoming a global leader and regional model for public mental health. For more on their work, vision, and mission, please visit mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency. 

 

Press /General Enquiries:

Chance Communications

Jeff Chan / Chloe Hung 

E: [email protected]/ [email protected] 

T: +852 2509 3308

Mind HK

Carol Liang, Deputy CEO, Mind HK
E: [email protected]

Emet So, Communications Coordinator, Mind HK 

E: [email protected]

Mind HK’s Social Media Platforms: 

Mind HK’s Facebook: @hongkongmind /Mind HK’s  Instagram: @mindhongkong 

 

Instagram Facebook-f Linkedin
What is iACT Service?

Improving Access to Community Therapies (iACT®) is one of the services from Mind HK. Trained Wellbeing Practitioners will offer initial assessment and early intervention for people dealing with mild to moderate symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other emotional difficulties.

 

The service includes 6-8 sessions of low-intensity psychological support, the flexibility of the service allows individuals to receive free and timely support when needed.

If you’re aged between 18 – 65 and are facing some emotional challenges, we would like to invite you to take an online assessment for us to gain a better understanding of your current emotional struggle.

 

If you’re eligible, we’ll get you connected with a Wellbeing Practitioner within two weeks to sort out the next steps.

The service runs for about 3 months and includes 6-8 support sessions, tailored to your needs.

 

We encourage you to attend all sessions and actively practice the tips and exercises provided by your Wellbeing Practitioner.

We take your privacy seriously. Your chats with the Wellbeing Practitioner are confidential.

 

We won’t share any of your info unless you’ve provided consent or if there are risks detected.

This programme isn’t suitable for people facing emergencies, major setbacks, or those diagnosed with serious or complex mental health conditions.

 

If you’re having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, this programme might not meet your needs, so please seek help right away. You can check out Mind HK’s “Find Help Now” page for immediate information and services.

Most of our Wellbeing Practitioners have backgrounds in psychology or counselling and are passionate about mental health. They’ve gone through about 140 hours of intensive training and completed at least 120 hours of supervised clinical practice over 9 months to ensure the quality of service.

 

They’re trained by accredited local experts in the mental health field, including clinical psychologists, counselling psychologists, counsellors, and psychiatrists. Plus, we regularly check how effective our services are. All service outputs and performances are subject to consistent monitoring.

Who is suitable for participating in this programme?

This programme welcomes anyone between the ages of 18 and 65 who may be feeling lost or facing emotional difficulties. Please note that this programme is not suitable for individuals diagnosed with severe or complex mental health conditions.

This programme is not suitable for individuals diagnosed with severe or complex mental health conditions, but suitable for those who experience mild to severe moderate anxiety, mild to moderate depression, or other emotional challenges. If you are currently experiencing a major setback or even having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please visit the “Find Help Now” page on our Mind HK’s website for immediate information and services.

After signing up, our Wellbeing Practitioner will contact you within two weeks to schedule a convenient time for a 45-minute conversation, either via video or phone call, according to your preference. During the conversation, the Wellbeing Practitioner will understand your current situation and help you gain a better understanding of your emotional state based on the questionnaire you filled out during application. Additionally, they will provide recommendations for appropriate community resources based on your needs, helping you take an important first step in taking care of your mental health.

Although the intervention procedure is mostly standardised, Wellbeing Practitioners will work flexibly with clients to address individual presenting problems and unique characteristics.

Our Wellbeing Practitioners are trained to support people who experience mild to moderate mental health difficulties primarily. This programme is not suitable for the situations mentioned above. If you are currently experiencing a major setback or even having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please visit the “Find Help Now” page on our Mind HK’s website for immediate information and services.

Your conversations with the Wellbeing Practitioner are absolutely confidential. Any information about you will not be shared with anyone without your consent unless you or others are at immediate risk or the Wellbeing Practitioner has reason to believe that you may be in imminent danger.
Supervisors will monitor trainees’ development throughout the placement to ensure that they are meeting the required level of competency to pass the training course at the end of the placement.

Yes, it is necessary to book an appointment in advance by filling out the form. Additionally, you can select one of the five stores yourself. We will allocate clients to different Wellbeing Practitioners based on their chosen location.

Before having the conversation, we will ask you to fill out a basic questionnaire for preliminary screening assessment. This screening process aims to ensure that the training received by the Wellbeing Practitioners is sufficient to meet the needs of the individuals receiving the service. If it is determined after the screening assessment that the service is not suitable for you, Mind HK will provide alternative recommendations to ensure your safety and support.

For adults who are suitable for this service, all Wellbeing Practitioners have received training on how to identify and respond to safety and risk issues. If you have any concerns about the support process, the Wellbeing Practitioners have appropriate measures in place and will develop response plans based on the urgency of the situation. They can also access support from clinical practitioners from Mind HK or participating organisations.

What private training does Mind HK provide?

Mind HK provides 4 themes of mental health training, including: Supporting Self, Supporting Others, Family Wellbeing and DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion).

 

Check out the brochure here for more information.

Mind HK provides a wide range of standardised mental health training, which can be tailored to different circumstances. Chat with our team to explore more! 

Our trainers come from a diverse, accredited pool of clinically experienced professionals. Check out our trainers’ biographies here.

Yes, the Mental Health First Aid class of Mind HK is internationally accredited by the MHFA International. The content and certification is delivered by trainers certified from the Mental Health Association of Hong Kong. You can find out our trainers accreditation here.

We are here to support your mental health education journey! Reach out to us and chat with our team.

STATEMENT: Mind HK Responds to Recent Stabbing Incident and Urges Responsible Media Coverage of Mental Health Conditions


*Mind HK Statement: Mind HK Responds to Recent Stabbing Incident and Urges Responsible Media Coverage of Mental Health Conditions*

 

(Hong Kong, 4 June 2023)- Local mental health charity Mind HK extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the two individuals who tragically lost their lives in the recent stabbing incident at a mall in Hong Kong. We are aware that the attacker was reported to have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia and was seeking professional support, and we would like to address the resulting discussion surrounding the incident.

 

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition characterised by symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganised behaviour, which can lead to a decline in various aspects of daily functioning. The vast majority of people diagnosed with schizophrenia are not violent, and generalising or stigmatising individuals with this condition can further isolate them and discourage them from seeking the help they need and deserve. Providing an inclusive and non-stigmatizing environment is crucial for promoting recovery and well-being for those affected by this condition.

 

This incident may raise concerns regarding the link between mental illness, particularly schizophrenia, and violence. However, research indicates only 3% to 5% of violent acts can be attributed to persons with severe mental illness, and individuals living with mental health conditions are significantly more likely to be victims of violence themselves (SAMHSA, 2023).

 

“In the face of this unfortunate incident, let us always remember: the majority of violent acts are not born from mental illness, and most of those suffering from serious mental illness pose no danger. We must resist the urge to generalise a single tragic event onto all those facing mental health challenges.“ - Dr Candice Powell, CEO, Mind HK and Clinical Psychologist 

 

“Violent behaviour in individuals with mental illness is often the result of a complex interplay of stress factors rather than the mental illness itself. It is important that we combat stigma and promote understanding and support, so we can help to create a more inclusive and compassionate society for all individuals, regardless of their mental health status.” - Odile Thiang, Lead Clinical Advisor (Anti-stigma and Training) 

 

Mind HK’s research found that 3 in 5 people diagnosed with a mental health condition in Hong Kong reported that they have never disclosed their struggles to anyone, with 43% reporting concerns of stigmatisation and discrimination (Mind HK, 2021). It is crucial to avoid stigmatising those who suffer from mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, and to ensure that individuals experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia or other mental health conditions, or caring for someone who is, can seek the appropriate support without fear of judgement or discrimination. 

 

In light of the graphic images and videos circulating, we encourage the public and the media to be mindful of their own mental health when exposed to such content. Viewing distressing material can significantly impact an individual's wellbeing, and it is essential to seek support and resources if needed.

 

We call on the media to exercise caution in the footage they release and the language they use surrounding mental illness in order to promote a more empathetic and understanding discourse. The media has considerable influence on shaping the narrative about mental health and mental health experiences; it is imperative that reporting on specific mental health conditions is done with careful consideration of the implications of perpetuating mental health stigma and discrimination.

 

Mind HK's vision is to ensure that no one in Hong Kong has to face a mental health problem alone, and it is evident stigma is a pervasive barrier for people seeking help in the community. We welcome the Hong Kong Secretary of Health’s comments on not stigmatising individuals facing mental health conditions and on encouraging people facing symptoms to seek the appropriate help. 

 

For more information about mental health support and resources available in Hong Kong, please visit our website at www.mindhk.org.

 

Additional resources:  

Mindframe mental health reporting guidelines: 

https://mindframe.org.au/guidelines 

 

Mindframe guidelines on media reporting of severe mental illness in the context of violence and crime: 

https://mindframe.org.au/mindframe-guidelines-severe-mental-illness-violence-and-crime

 

SPRC Style Guide: Reporting on Mental Health 

https://sprc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/mental-health-reporting-style-guide.pdf

 

Additional resources on the mental health of journalists: 
https://www.journaliststoolbox.org/2023/02/26/mental-health-for-journalists/

 

Data on mental health stigma in Hong Kong: 

https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/press-releases/mind-hk-and-mindset-launch-more-than-a-label-to-combat-the-stigma-in-hong-kong-against-mental-illness/ 

 

More tips on taking care of your wellbeing :

TC: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/zh-hant/mental-health-a-to-z/如何改善精神健康/改善精神健康的貼士/

ENG: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/mental-health-a-to-z/mental-wellbeing-2/tips-for-improving-your-mental-wellbeing/

 

About Schizophrenia: 

https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/mental-health-a-to-z/schizophrenia/about-schizophrenia/

 

Helplines/services: 

Urgent services: 

TC:  https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/zh-hant/find-help-now/

ENG: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/find-help-now/ 

 

Non-urgent services: 

TC: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/zh-hant/community-directory/ 

ENG: https://mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency/community-directory/ 

 

About Mind HK 

Mind HK (Mind Mental Health Hong Kong Limited) is an S88 registered charity (91/16471), which was launched in 2017. The organisation’s vision is to ensure that no one in Hong Kong has to face a mental health problem alone. Through resources, training, and outreach campaigns and programmes, the work of Mind HK helps to raise awareness of mental health and reduce the associated stigma, with the aim of achieving the best mental health for all in Hong Kong. With existing collaboration and research efforts, Mind HK is here to support Hong Kong in becoming a global leader and regional model for public mental health. For more on their work, vision, and mission, please visit mind-dev-2.digitalcandy.agency. 

 

Press /General Enquiries:

Chance Communications

Jeff Chan / Chloe Hung 

E: [email protected]/ [email protected] 

T: +852 2509 3308

Mind HK

Carol Liang, Deputy CEO, Mind HK
E: [email protected]

Emet So, Communications Coordinator, Mind HK 

E: [email protected]

Mind HK’s Social Media Platforms: 

Mind HK’s Facebook: @hongkongmind /Mind HK’s  Instagram: @mindhongkong