Hong Kong’s LGBTQ community continues to face significant mental health challenges, with rates of depression and anxiety remaining high despite efforts to address these issues. According to a recent survey conducted by the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Society of True Light, the mental health of LGBTQ individuals in Hong Kong has not improved in the past seven years.
Key Findings from the Survey:
Depression and Anxiety: The survey, which polled 1,433 LGBTQ individuals, found that 30.8% reported symptoms of moderate to severe depression, and 24% experienced moderate to severe anxiety. These figures are almost identical to those found in a 2017 survey, highlighting the persistent mental health struggles faced by the community.
Higher Rates Compared to General Public: The survey revealed that depression and anxiety symptoms were more common among LGBTQ individuals compared to the general population. This is strongly linked to ongoing discrimination, prejudice, and the lack of legal protections for LGBTQ people in Hong Kong.
Barriers to Mental Health Support:
Limited Support Services: Nearly 35% of respondents sought mental health services, primarily from school counselors and social workers. However, many LGBTQ individuals reported negative experiences with these services. For example, some were assumed to be cisgender and heterosexual, and others were told that their sexual identities were due to childhood trauma or family problems.
Bias Among Social Workers: A separate study from the University of Hong Kong found that social workers in Hong Kong, while outwardly supportive of the LGBTQ community, often held implicit biases and lacked competence in LGBTQ affirmative practices, which are essential for providing effective support.
Recommendations for Improvement:
Targeted Mental Health Support: Experts, including Randolph Chan from Chinese University, have called for the creation of mental health services specifically designed for the LGBTQ community. These services should focus on affirming sexual identities and address the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals.
Better Training for Professionals: Social workers and mental health professionals should undergo training that incorporates diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as LGBTQ affirmative practices. This would ensure that LGBTQ individuals feel supported and validated in their interactions with healthcare providers.
Policy and Structural Changes: Dr. Huang Yu-Te from HKU advocates for the establishment of a dedicated mental health service institute for the LGBTQ community. He also emphasizes the importance of including LGBTQ-specific content in the basic training for social workers and health professionals.
Addressing Broader Challenges: Colby Li Yangli of Tung Wah Group of Hospitals points out that while public health measures for LGBTQ individuals often focus on HIV and drug abuse, many in the community also face financial difficulties, workplace discrimination, and relationship challenges. These issues require broader social support services.
Upcoming Conference:
The Society of True Light is hosting a two-day conference at Chinese University in June to raise awareness about LGBTQ affirmative practices and mental health challenges. The event will feature local and international experts who will discuss topics such as clinical management for transgender people and strategies for preventing LGBTQ bullying in schools.
Conclusion:
While there have been efforts to support mental health in Hong Kong’s LGBTQ community, persistent discrimination and inadequate support systems continue to negatively affect the well-being of LGBTQ individuals. Experts stress the importance of targeted mental health services, better training for professionals, and structural policy changes to improve mental health outcomes and provide a more inclusive environment for the LGBTQ community.
Related topics:
What’s Good for Bipolar Disorder?
What Causes a Schizoid Personality Disorder?
How Can I Make Myself Feel Better With COVID
