Mind HK Responds to Recent North Point Shooting Incident and Urges Awareness and Training in Response to Critical Incident of Mental Health Crisis

 

Mind HK extends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the individual tragically lost in the recent incident. Our thoughts are with them during this profoundly difficult time.

This heartbreaking event underscores the critical need for comprehensive mental health training and awareness among all frontline workers, including law enforcement. Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis require compassion, understanding, and professional intervention that prioritises their wellbeing and safety.

We advocate for increased investment in mental health training for all frontline responders to ensure they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle crises involving mental health with the utmost respect and effectiveness. Training programmes should focus on de-escalation techniques, recognising signs of mental health distress, and appropriate ways to engage mental health professionals when necessary.

Psychosis is a mental health condition characterised by disruptions in thinking, perceptions, and emotional responsiveness. Individuals experiencing such conditions may experience delusions or hallucinations affecting their functioning.  It is crucial to understand that psychotic conditions, like many mental health conditions, are treatable through a combination of medication, psychological intervention, and community support. Timely treatment can significantly improve the quality of life of the impacted individuals and their families. It is important to stress that most people with psychosis or schizophrenia, are not violent. Misconceptions and fears around such conditions contribute to the stigma, making it more challenging for individuals to seek help.

Mental health conditions require an informed and sensitive response and action. The stigmatisation of mental health conditions not only perpetuates misunderstanding but also discourages individuals from seeking the help they need. It is our collective responsibility to foster an environment where mental health issues are recognised without judgement and addressed with the same urgency and care as any health emergency. We believe in the power of community and understanding to create a safer, more compassionate world. 

Mind HK’s vision is to ensure that no one in Hong Kong has to face a mental health problem alone. We are committed to advocating for these necessary changes and to working tirelessly to reduce stigma and improve mental health resources for all.

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

Additional Resources:

About Schizophrenia: https://bit.ly/4d7mLuB

About Psychosis: https://bit.ly/3B9tff7

Mental Health First Aid: https://bit.ly/47z6tcP

What Challenges do Carers face? : https://bit.ly/4eu9rS8

Guide for a Trauma-Informed Law Enforcement Initiative: https://bit.ly/4eolK20

 

Helpline/ Services:

Mental Health Support Hotline: 18111

Caritas Family Crisis Support Centre: 18288

Hospital Authority: 24667350

The Samaritan Befrienders Hong Kong: 23892223

The Samaritans: 28960000

18-district community mental health support: https://bit.ly/47O7SfL