Professor Wong is an accredited registered clinical psychologist and an Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work and Social Administration at The University of Hong Kong. He has a background as a registered clinical psychologist specializing in suicide prevention research and mental health promotion and practice since 2003. His recent research projects encompass various areas, including youth social withdrawal behaviour, the utilization of animals in educational and psychological interventions, positive youth development among local and non-Chinese young individuals, and family caregiving for individuals with psychological issues and people incarceration.
1.Could you share your insights on the specific factors that contribute to vulnerability in communities, particularly among young people?
Suicide is the leading cause of death among young people worldwide. Few studies examined the factors of childhood suicidality and compared them with adolescent suicidality to meet their age-specific needs. We examined the similarities and differences in risk and protective factors of children and adolescent suicidality in Hong Kong. A school-based survey with 541 students in grades 4–6 and 3,061 students in grades 7–11 from 15 schools was conducted. We measured the demographic, familial, school, mental health, and psychological factors of suicidality. Hierarchical binary logistic regressions were performed to examine the association between correlates and child and youth suicidality, and the interaction effects of these factors and school-age groups. Approximately 17.51% and 7.84% of secondary school respondents and 15.76% and 8.17% of primary school respondents reported suicidal ideation and attempts, respectively. Common correlates for suicidal ideation were depression, bullying, loneliness, self-compassion, and growth mindset, while those for suicide attempts were depression and bullying. Secondary school respondents with higher life satisfaction reported less suicidal ideation, while primary school respondents with higher self-control reported fewer suicide attempts. In conclusion, we recommended recognizing the factors of suicidal ideation and attempts in children and adolescents to tailor preventive strategies in a culturally sensitive manner.
2.How can we better identify individuals who may be at risk of suicidal behaviour?
Identifying individuals at risk of suicidal behaviour involves several key steps. Implementing regular mental health screenings in schools and community centres can help catch early signs of distress. Educating teachers, parents, and peers to recognize warning signs through gatekeeper training, such as drastic changes in behaviour or expressions of hopelessness, is crucial. Making mental health services more accessible and ensuring there is a clear path for young people to get help is essential – make sure there is ‘no wrong doors’ for young people who need and seek help. Developing community programs that promote mental well-being and resilience can provide much-needed support. Additionally, leveraging technology, such as mental health apps and online counselling services or even making use of AI, may offer additional support and resources for those in need.
3.You advocate for the transformative power of positive human-animal interactions. Can you elaborate on how these interactions can serve as a therapeutic tool in preventing suicide and improving mental health in marginalized communities?
Positive interactions with animals can promote physical, psychological, and social well-being though the effects may differ between countries. Companion animals offer unconditional love and companionship, which can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Spending time with animals can lower stress levels and boost mood by increasing the production of feel-good hormones, oxytocin. Non-human animals can also help people connect with others, fostering a sense of community. Caring for a pet provides structure and a sense of purpose, which can be very beneficial for mental health. Furthermore, animal-assisted interventions have been found to be effective in treating various mental health conditions, providing comfort and facilitating emotional expression. In marginalized communities, especially among youth with prolonged social withdrawal behaviour, these interactions can be particularly valuable, offering a source of emotional support and stability.
4. What strategies do you believe are most effective in fostering community engagement and support for those struggling with suicidal thoughts? How can we encourage open conversations about mental health in our society?
Fostering community engagement and support involves several strategies. Raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention through educational programs can help reduce stigma. Creating peer support groups and community programs can provide a sense of belonging and mutual support. Training community members, such as teachers, coaches, and religious leaders, to recognize and respond to signs of suicidal behaviour can facilitate early intervention. Encouraging open conversations about mental health can help normalize these discussions and make it easier for people to share their struggles. Ensuring mental health resources are easily accessible to everyone is crucial for providing timely support. By implementing these strategies, we can create a more supportive and understanding community. Having said that, the most important ingredient to foster that is – Trust.
5. As you continue your work in clinical psychology and academia, what are your hopes for the future of mental health support in Hong Kong? What changes would you like to see in how we approach suicide prevention within vulnerable communities?
Looking ahead, I have several hopes for the future of mental health support in Hong Kong. I hope to see a more integrated and transdisciplinary approach (https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3283633/why-hong-kong-should-aim-transform-mental-health-care) to mental health care that combines counselling, medical, psychological, and social support services.
Enhancing early detection and intervention programs to support individuals at risk before their situation becomes critical is also essential. Increasing community involvement in mental health initiatives can create a supportive environment where people feel safe to seek help. Continuing efforts to reduce the stigma around mental health issues, with a lot more involvement of people with lived experiences and their caregivers, through public education and awareness campaigns is crucial. Additionally, advocating for policies and increased funding to support mental health services and research will ensure that resources are available to meet the needs of vulnerable populations. By making these changes, we can improve the overall mental health landscape in Hong Kong and provide better support for those in need.
