Hongkongers can be struggling with severe mental health problems but still not be considered urgent cases, according to mental health advocate Minal Mahtani, who wants community groups to play a bigger role before individual cases reach crisis point.
Mahtani, founder of OCD & Anxiety Support Hong Kong, said better referrals between hospitals, community mental health services and specialist charities could help people receive timely support while they wait for formal treatment.
Her work has earned her a place among the finalists in the community category of this year’s Spirit of Hong Kong Awards, co-organised by Sino Group and the South China Morning Post.