On 28 September 2023, the EOC organised a seminar on media reporting of mental health in response to increasing media and public interest in mental health issues. The event, supported by the Advisory Committee on Mental Health and the Hong Kong News Executives’ Association, aimed to provide a platform for frontline journalists, editors, academics, health professionals and persons with mental illness to discuss media reporting on mental health issues. Additionally, it sought to share best practices for preventing the stigmatisation and stereotyping of persons with mental health needs or people in recovery. The seminar attracted around 100 participants.

During his opening speech, Mr Gary WONG Chi-him, JP, Convenor of Community Participation and Publicity Committee of the EOC said, “Between 2001 and 2020, the number of persons with mental health needs in Hong Kong increased fourfold from around 50 000 to over 250 000. Despite the fast-growing trend, the public’s understanding of mental health needs remains insufficient. Accordingly, there is dire urgency to enhance understanding and awareness of such issues. The EOC believes that the media has an important role to play in turning the tide against the stigmatisation of persons with mental health needs and promote a positive and accurate understanding of mental health to the public.”

Prominent academics in the field of mental health and media, including Prof Linda LAM Chiu-wa of the Department of Psychiatry of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prof Raymond LI, Department Head, Department of Journalism of the Hong Kong Baptist University, as well as EOC Executive Director (Operations) Dr Ferrick CHU Chung-man delivered presentations and engaged in a discussion session along with Dr Quinton CHAN Yuk-kuen, Member of Executive Committee of Hong Kong Press Council and part-time Senior Lecturer, Department of Journalism and Communication of Hong Kong Shue Yan University to exchange insights on how to ensure balanced and accurate media reporting on mental health issues, thereby minimising stereotyping and stigmatisation of persons with mental health needs.

Ms Lily CHAN, member of the Advisory Committee on Mental Health, and Miss LEUNG Pui-ki, person in recovery and social worker, also shared their perspectives on the challenges faced by persons with mental health needs and their carers.

Speeches and presentations delivered during the seminar are now available on the EOC’s website.

• Read the press release
• Read the speeches and presentations delivered in the seminar