Donate
Find Help Now

[PRESS RELEASE] Mind HK’s Anti-Stigma Campaign “More Than a Label” Launches New Community Series “Saturday Stories: Let’s Be Stigma-Free!”

08/07/2026
Share

【Hong Kong, 7 July 2026】Following the success of its fifth anniversary exhibition “Refraction: A Journey of Our Mind” at Exchange Square in Central, local mental health charity Mind HK is once again bringing conversations into the community. Its anti-stigma campaign “More Than a Label” has launched a brand-new community event series, “Saturday Stories: Let’s Be Stigma-Free!”

 

Taking place over six consecutive Saturday afternoons from 4 July to 8 August 2026, the series invites members of the public to gather in welcoming neighbourhood spaces across Hong Kong to meet Mind HK’s Mental Health Ambassadors — individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges — and hear their personal recovery journeys.

 

The campaign is supported by The Keswick Foundation and MINDSET, and sponsored by Manulife Hong Kong and Macau.

｜Six Themes Exploring Mental Health in Everyday Life｜

The six sharing sessions explore themes closely connected to everyday life, including:

  • Parental Mental Health
  • Maternal Mental Health (for mothers of newborns and young children)
  • Youth Mental Health — Future Prospects After Public Exam Results
  • Creative & PerformingArts and Mental Health
  • Men’s Mental Health
  • Food and Mental Health

Together, these topics reflect the many ways mental health intersects with family, identity, creativity, relationships and wellbeing.

 

Each session takes place in intimate community venues — from cafés to family-friendly spaces — creating a relaxed setting for open and heartfelt conversations. Participants do not need any prior knowledge or preparation. Simply come along, enjoy a complimentary drink, and listen to a story.

 

In a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, attendees are invited to experience genuine human connection, deepen their understanding of mental health, and reflect on the labels that shape — and sometimes limit — how we see ourselves and others.

 

｜Bringing Storytelling into the Community｜

 At the earlier exhibition “Refraction: A Journey of Our Mind,” many participants shared how listening to real-life stories transformed their understanding of mental health:

 

“The sharing by people in recovery meant a lot to me. It felt encouraging and motivated me to follow what I learned today to take care of my own wellbeing. We rarely have opportunities to openly discuss emotional health — this event felt rare and deeply moving.” — Exhibition participant

 

“I saw parts of myself in many of the ambassadors’ stories.” — Exhibition participant

“I used to think people would avoid talking about mental health, but through the exhibition I realised many are actually very open to discussing these topics.” — Exhibition participant

 

These heartfelt reflections affirm the power of storytelling in breaking stigma.

 

Since its launch in 2021, the “More Than a Label” anti-stigma campaign has trained over 200 Mental Health Ambassadors, creating safe platforms for individuals with lived experience to share their recovery journeys publicly. Their honest and courageous stories have encouraged the wider community to re-examine perceptions of mental health and gradually dismantle deeply rooted stereotypes.

 

“The (self-)stigma around mental illness used to be a hindrance for me seeking help. But once I did, it gave me the necessary tools. I am so much stronger and healthier for it. There is always hope. And there are always others who will be there for you. It certainly was the case for me and encouraged me to reach out to others even more.” —— Jan, Mental Health Ambassador

 

“We truly need companions on our mental health journey. Even if you fall into the deepest pit, whenever you are ready to stand up again, there is always someone willing to help you up.” —— Bosco, Mental Health Ambassador

 

Mind HK believes that through authentic storytelling and sincere connection, we can gradually destigmatise the labels surrounding mental health — and remind one another that no one is defined by a single label.

 

Join us this summer. See you on Saturday.

 

Event Details: “Saturday Stories: Let’s Be Stigma-Free!”

Six themes across six weekends exploring mental health in everyday life:

 

Date & TimeThemeVenueLanguage
4 July (Sat)
3:00–5:00 PM		Parental Mental HealthColour Brown Coffee
1/F, 13 Wong Chuk Street,
Sham Shui Po		Cantonese
11 July (Sat)
12:30–2:30 PM

Maternal Mental Health*

*Specifically designed for mothers of newborns and young children. Participants are welcome to bring their children.

Baumhaus
1/F, Kar Yau Building,
36-44 Queen’s Road East,
Wan Chai, Hong Kong.		English
18 July (Sat)
3:00–5:00 PM		Youth Mental Health — Future Prospects After Public Exam ResultsThirsty
2/F & Rooftop,
452 Castle Peak Road,
Cheung Sha Wan		Cantonese
25 July (Sat)
3:30–5:30 PM		Creative & Performing Arts and Mental HealthTGIF
Shop 4-6, G/F, Wo Fat Building,
539 Queen’s Road West,
Sai Wan		Cantonese
1 August (Sat)
4:00–6:00 PM		Men’s Mental HealthVerano Boxing Club
Shop 23 1/F, 1 Chung Ching St,
Sai Ying Pun		English
8 August (Sat)
3:00–5:00 PM		Food and Mental HealthZtoryhome
G/F, 118 Queen’s Road West,
Sai Ying Pun		Cantonese

About Mind HK

Mind HK is a registered charity under Section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance (91/16471), established in 2017. Our mission is to ensure that no one faces a mental health problem alone. Mind HK raises public awareness of mental health and works to eliminate stigma through various resources, training, outreach activities, and programmes, aiming for universal mental health. Through current collaborations and research, Mind HK aspires to make Hong Kong a global leader and regional model in the field of public mental health.

For more information about our work, vision, and mission, please visit our website: https://www.mind.org.hk/. 

 

About More Than a Label

“More Than a Label,” developed by Mind HK, is an anti‑stigma campaign supported by The Keswick Foundation and MINDSET, and sponsored by Manulife. The programme aims to challenge public misconceptions about mental illness by empowering individuals in recovery to share their authentic stories. Through storytelling, the campaign encourages society to rethink stigma, labels, and the assumptions surrounding mental health challenges.

Learn more: https://www.mind.org.hk/news-and-events/mtal/ 

 

About The Keswick Foundation

The Keswick Foundation (KF) supports innovative, holistic, and practical solutions to address social needs in Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland. Guided by its vision of Changing Lives, Bringing Hope and Making Impact, KF focuses on long‑term service development and capacity building, empowering communities to create sustainable change where it is needed most.

 

About MINDSET

MINDSET was founded by Jardine Matheson in 2002 as the Group’s registered mental health charity. For over two decades, it has played a pioneering role in fostering inclusive communities where mental health is better understood, supported, and prioritised.

 

In 2026, MINDSET was integrated into The Keswick Foundation to further extend and strengthen its mental health impact across Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland.

 

About Manulife Hong Kong and Macau

Manulife Hong Kong has been a trusted name for more than 125 years, while we have served the Macau market for nearly three decades. Since our operations began in Asia in 1897, we have grown into one of the top-tier providers of financial services, offering a diverse range of protection and wealth products and services to over 2.6 million customers in Hong Kong and Macau. We are committed to helping make decisions easier and lives better for our customers.

Manulife Hong Kong and Macau, through Manulife International Holdings Limited, owns Manulife (International) Limited, Manulife Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited, and Manulife Provident Funds Trust Company Limited. These entities are all subsidiaries of Manulife Financial Corporation.

 

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Anchored in our ambition to be the number one choice for customers, we operate as Manulife across Canada and Asia, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, providing financial advice, insurance and health solutions for individuals, groups and businesses. Through Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, we offer global investment solutions, financial advice, and retirement plan services to individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2025, we had more than 37,000 employees, over 106,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 37 million customers with operations across 25 markets globally. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and Philippine stock exchanges, and under ‘945’ on the Hong Kong stock exchange. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit https://www.manulife.com/ca/en/about-us.

 

Mind HK social media platforms:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mindhongkong/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindhongkong

“More Than a Label” anti-stigma campaign Instagram: www.instagram.com/morethanalabelhk/

 

-END-

HD photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1SgShNcXSTkDUsqR_wZ0wcSxH5eUaanqM


Media Contact:

Mind HK (Totoro Studio)

Lorraine Lau

T: (852) 6470 9678

Mind HK (Totoro Studio)                          

Michelle Wong 

T: (852) 9147 1455

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 struggles.

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

To ensure our services remain sustainable and accessible to all, we utilise a sliding scale fee model based on household income starting 1 June 2026. Sessions range from free of charge to HK$ 150 – HK$ 300, as detailed in the table below.
By contributing what you can, you directly support the longevity of our iACT services. These fees sustain Mind HK’s vital work, ensuring our support remains available for those who need it most. Furthermore, your contribution fuels our broader mission, including school-based programmes, mental health training, and essential awareness campaigns across the city.
Monthly Household Income Fee Per Session
≤ HK$ 20,000 Free
HK$ 20,001 – HK$ 40,000 HK$ 150
>HK$ 40,000 HK$ 300
*To ensure fairness and the proper allocation of resources, we conduct occasional random checks to verify that assigned fee levels remain aligned with our users’ current financial circumstances.
**You may also choose to receive services provided by a Trainee Wellbeing Practitioner or an Alumni Wellbeing Practitioner. The fees will be waived, and the wait time may be longer.

All payments made are non-refundable. If you are facing special circumstances, please let us know. We may consider a refund on a case-by-case basis depending on your specific situation.

Yes. In addition to income-based waivers, you may choose to receive support from a Trainee Wellbeing Practitioner or an Alumni Wellbeing Practitioner volunteer. In these instances, fees are waived, though wait times may be longer.

You may reschedule your appointment up to two times during your service period. Please note that all changes must be made at least two working days prior to your scheduled session.

Yes, you may choose to discontinue the service at any time.

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.

Instagram Facebook-f Linkedin

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.

[PRESS RELEASE] Mind HK’s Anti-Stigma Campaign “More Than a Label” Launches New Community Series “Saturday Stories: Let’s Be Stigma-Free!”

【Hong Kong, 7 July 2026】Following the success of its fifth anniversary exhibition “Refraction: A Journey of Our Mind” at Exchange Square in Central, local mental health charity Mind HK is once again bringing conversations into the community. Its anti-stigma campaign “More Than a Label” has launched a brand-new community event series, “Saturday Stories: Let’s Be Stigma-Free!”

 

Taking place over six consecutive Saturday afternoons from 4 July to 8 August 2026, the series invites members of the public to gather in welcoming neighbourhood spaces across Hong Kong to meet Mind HK’s Mental Health Ambassadors — individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges — and hear their personal recovery journeys.

 

The campaign is supported by The Keswick Foundation and MINDSET, and sponsored by Manulife Hong Kong and Macau.

｜Six Themes Exploring Mental Health in Everyday Life｜

The six sharing sessions explore themes closely connected to everyday life, including:

  • Parental Mental Health
  • Maternal Mental Health (for mothers of newborns and young children)
  • Youth Mental Health — Future Prospects After Public Exam Results
  • Creative & PerformingArts and Mental Health
  • Men’s Mental Health
  • Food and Mental Health

Together, these topics reflect the many ways mental health intersects with family, identity, creativity, relationships and wellbeing.

 

Each session takes place in intimate community venues — from cafés to family-friendly spaces — creating a relaxed setting for open and heartfelt conversations. Participants do not need any prior knowledge or preparation. Simply come along, enjoy a complimentary drink, and listen to a story.

 

In a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, attendees are invited to experience genuine human connection, deepen their understanding of mental health, and reflect on the labels that shape — and sometimes limit — how we see ourselves and others.

 

｜Bringing Storytelling into the Community｜

 At the earlier exhibition “Refraction: A Journey of Our Mind,” many participants shared how listening to real-life stories transformed their understanding of mental health:

 

“The sharing by people in recovery meant a lot to me. It felt encouraging and motivated me to follow what I learned today to take care of my own wellbeing. We rarely have opportunities to openly discuss emotional health — this event felt rare and deeply moving.” — Exhibition participant

 

“I saw parts of myself in many of the ambassadors’ stories.” — Exhibition participant

“I used to think people would avoid talking about mental health, but through the exhibition I realised many are actually very open to discussing these topics.” — Exhibition participant

 

These heartfelt reflections affirm the power of storytelling in breaking stigma.

 

Since its launch in 2021, the “More Than a Label” anti-stigma campaign has trained over 200 Mental Health Ambassadors, creating safe platforms for individuals with lived experience to share their recovery journeys publicly. Their honest and courageous stories have encouraged the wider community to re-examine perceptions of mental health and gradually dismantle deeply rooted stereotypes.

 

“The (self-)stigma around mental illness used to be a hindrance for me seeking help. But once I did, it gave me the necessary tools. I am so much stronger and healthier for it. There is always hope. And there are always others who will be there for you. It certainly was the case for me and encouraged me to reach out to others even more.” —— Jan, Mental Health Ambassador

 

“We truly need companions on our mental health journey. Even if you fall into the deepest pit, whenever you are ready to stand up again, there is always someone willing to help you up.” —— Bosco, Mental Health Ambassador

 

Mind HK believes that through authentic storytelling and sincere connection, we can gradually destigmatise the labels surrounding mental health — and remind one another that no one is defined by a single label.

 

Join us this summer. See you on Saturday.

 

Event Details: “Saturday Stories: Let’s Be Stigma-Free!”

Six themes across six weekends exploring mental health in everyday life:

 

Date & Time Theme Venue Language
4 July (Sat)
3:00–5:00 PM		 Parental Mental Health Colour Brown Coffee
1/F, 13 Wong Chuk Street,
Sham Shui Po		 Cantonese
11 July (Sat)
12:30–2:30 PM

Maternal Mental Health*

*Specifically designed for mothers of newborns and young children. Participants are welcome to bring their children.

 Baumhaus
1/F, Kar Yau Building,
36-44 Queen's Road East,
Wan Chai, Hong Kong.		 English
18 July (Sat)
3:00–5:00 PM		 Youth Mental Health — Future Prospects After Public Exam Results Thirsty
2/F & Rooftop,
452 Castle Peak Road,
Cheung Sha Wan		 Cantonese
25 July (Sat)
3:30–5:30 PM		 Creative & Performing Arts and Mental Health TGIF
Shop 4-6, G/F, Wo Fat Building,
539 Queen's Road West,
Sai Wan		 Cantonese
1 August (Sat)
4:00–6:00 PM		 Men’s Mental Health Verano Boxing Club
Shop 23 1/F, 1 Chung Ching St,
Sai Ying Pun		 English
8 August (Sat)
3:00–5:00 PM		 Food and Mental Health Ztoryhome
G/F, 118 Queen’s Road West,
Sai Ying Pun		 Cantonese

About Mind HK

Mind HK is a registered charity under Section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance (91/16471), established in 2017. Our mission is to ensure that no one faces a mental health problem alone. Mind HK raises public awareness of mental health and works to eliminate stigma through various resources, training, outreach activities, and programmes, aiming for universal mental health. Through current collaborations and research, Mind HK aspires to make Hong Kong a global leader and regional model in the field of public mental health.

For more information about our work, vision, and mission, please visit our website: https://www.mind.org.hk/. 

 

About More Than a Label

“More Than a Label,” developed by Mind HK, is an anti‑stigma campaign supported by The Keswick Foundation and MINDSET, and sponsored by Manulife. The programme aims to challenge public misconceptions about mental illness by empowering individuals in recovery to share their authentic stories. Through storytelling, the campaign encourages society to rethink stigma, labels, and the assumptions surrounding mental health challenges.

Learn more: https://www.mind.org.hk/news-and-events/mtal/ 

 

About The Keswick Foundation

The Keswick Foundation (KF) supports innovative, holistic, and practical solutions to address social needs in Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland. Guided by its vision of Changing Lives, Bringing Hope and Making Impact, KF focuses on long‑term service development and capacity building, empowering communities to create sustainable change where it is needed most.

 

About MINDSET

MINDSET was founded by Jardine Matheson in 2002 as the Group’s registered mental health charity. For over two decades, it has played a pioneering role in fostering inclusive communities where mental health is better understood, supported, and prioritised.

 

In 2026, MINDSET was integrated into The Keswick Foundation to further extend and strengthen its mental health impact across Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland.

 

About Manulife Hong Kong and Macau

Manulife Hong Kong has been a trusted name for more than 125 years, while we have served the Macau market for nearly three decades. Since our operations began in Asia in 1897, we have grown into one of the top-tier providers of financial services, offering a diverse range of protection and wealth products and services to over 2.6 million customers in Hong Kong and Macau. We are committed to helping make decisions easier and lives better for our customers.

Manulife Hong Kong and Macau, through Manulife International Holdings Limited, owns Manulife (International) Limited, Manulife Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited, and Manulife Provident Funds Trust Company Limited. These entities are all subsidiaries of Manulife Financial Corporation.

 

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Anchored in our ambition to be the number one choice for customers, we operate as Manulife across Canada and Asia, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, providing financial advice, insurance and health solutions for individuals, groups and businesses. Through Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, we offer global investment solutions, financial advice, and retirement plan services to individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2025, we had more than 37,000 employees, over 106,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 37 million customers with operations across 25 markets globally. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and Philippine stock exchanges, and under ‘945’ on the Hong Kong stock exchange. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit https://www.manulife.com/ca/en/about-us.

 

Mind HK social media platforms:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mindhongkong/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindhongkong

“More Than a Label” anti-stigma campaign Instagram: www.instagram.com/morethanalabelhk/

 

-END-

HD photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1SgShNcXSTkDUsqR_wZ0wcSxH5eUaanqM

Media Contact:

Mind HK (Totoro Studio)

Lorraine Lau

T: (852) 6470 9678

Mind HK (Totoro Studio)                          

Michelle Wong 

T: (852) 9147 1455