The average Hongkonger’s mental health score fell from 48.03 in 2021 to 47.64 in 2022, according to the latest survey under “Mental Health Month”, an annual awareness campaign in October co-organised by rehabilitation groups and public bodies, including the EOC.

With a sample of 1 004 citizens aged 15 or above, this year’s survey once again adopted the World Health Organization’s Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5), which presents respondents with five statements and asks them to rate, among other things, how often they felt cheerful, relaxed, rested, and interested in things happening in daily life over the two weeks prior to taking the survey.

A score of 52 is generally agreed to be the passing score. Hongkongers have failed to hit the mark for five consecutive years.

Notably, there was a significance increase this year in the proportion of respondents who said factors relating to their life prospects, financial condition, living environment and interpersonal relationships had made an extremely or fairly adverse impact on their mental health. 

Speaking at a press conference on 26 October 2022, the Organising Committee of “Mental Health Month” recommended that the Government conduct a prompt review of relevant policies and strengthen its support measures for different sectors of the community. In particular, given that the lowest scores were found among people aged 35-54, many of whom face intense pressure from having to juggle work and family, the Government should consider enhancing its support for people in employment, as well as carers.

For more information about the survey and campaign, please click the link below.

• Follow “Mental Health Month” on Facebook (Chinese only) 
• Read a related article by EOC Chairperson Mr Ricky CHU Man-kin