Manulife Hong Kong Forms Strategic Alliance with Mental Health Charity Mind HK

Manulife Hong Kong has initiated a groundbreaking two-year strategic partnership with the renowned mental health charity Mind HK to elevate public awareness about mental health and bolster local support services.

The collaboration aligns with Manulife’s Impact Agenda, which places a strong emphasis on long-term health and well-being initiatives.

Studies show that in Hong Kong, an estimated one in seven individuals may experience common mental health disorders, with a significant portion of those affected, around 75%, failing to seek professional help despite the prevalence of the issues.

The primary goal of this joint venture is to create and implement programs aimed at reducing the high incidence of mental health concerns across the city.

Activities planned under this partnership include organizing awareness campaigns, anti-stigma initiatives, and professional training programs designed to promote enhanced mental health support within the local community.

CEO of Manulife Hong Kong and Macau, Patrick Graham, highlighted the shared vision between Manulife and Mind HK in advocating for mental health importance and breaking stereotypes prevalent in the community.

Dr. Candice Powell, the CEO of Mind HK, expressed excitement over the collaboration, noting that it will allow them to broaden their service network, assisting more individuals in need of mental health support and elevating public awareness to enhance mental health literacy and reduce stigma.

Key upcoming programs in 2024 include iACT®, a stepped care model introduced by Mind HK to offer free short-term support for those grappling with anxiety, depression, or emotional distress.

Mind HK aims to expand its network of iACT® wellbeing practitioners with the support of Manulife.

An event featuring experts from diverse mental health backgrounds is scheduled for June 21, 2024, at Quarryside in Quarry Bay, hosted by Benjamin Au Yeung, a linguistic scholar-turned-TV presenter, focusing on emotion management.

Another initiative will involve training individuals with mental health experiences to become ambassadors, sharing their stories across various platforms in partnership with MINDSET Hong Kong to educate and diminish stigma in the society.

Additionally, a three-day international conference titled “Birth, Life, and Mental Health” will delve into mental well-being across different life stages and is anticipated to attract approximately 1,000 attendees.