World Mental Health Month 2022: 5 Hong Kong events to raise awareness and encourage us to talk about mental well-being
- Wellness-focused groups host workshops, exhibitions and interactive events to help people in Hong Kong shake off stress, anxiety and depression
- During October, we are reminded to look after our well-being and share our mental health concerns with others
Mental health has become a pressing issue globally, with the coronavirus pandemic taking a toll on our minds and bodies.
The whole of October is designated World Mental Health Month by the United Nations, while October 10 is World Mental Health Day – a time to remind us that we need to talk more openly about mental health and recognise the importance of looking after our well-being.
A number of events are unfolding in Hong Kong in the next few weeks, including the following.
Healthy wonderland
Insurance company AXA Hong Kong and Macau is going big with its “AXA BetterMe Weekend” on October 8 and 9 at the West Kowloon Cultural District. The outdoor carnival is divided into five sections: “Emotion Zone”, “Art Care Zone”, “Wellness Zone”, “Go Green Zone” and “Fitness Zone”.
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It will feature a range of classes, games and workshops, including one created by Japanese artist Yoshirotten.
Seven sessions of free yoga and dance classes are on offer, guided by professional instructors from Pure, under the themes of “Family Yoga”, “Yoga Strength & Stretch” and “United Dance for Family”.
Log into a healthier future
Advances in technology have improved health care. To showcase the latest developments, insurance company One Bupa is hosting “Healthcare 3.0 Concept Hub”, the city’s first interactive exhibition highlighting health tech and personal well-being.
Running until October 9, the exhibition, titled “The Future of Health & Technology”, will showcase the latest health tech – including smart medical services and health monitoring devices – and services and applications from Hong Kong and the region.
Bupa has partnered with Hong Kong mental health group Coolminds to debut a digital art therapy zone, “Be Brave Now”, centred around colours and numbers.
Budding surgeons can try their hand at a surgery simulation game, Dr Roboto, to see how well they can conduct a remote operation.
Visit the exhibition at Asia Standard Tower, Central.
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Making mental health a global priority
MindHK has played a key role in raising awareness around the often stigmatised issue of mental health. This month, the Hong Kong charity is hosting an online interactive panel event with the theme “Making Mental Health & Well-being for All a Global Priority”.
Recent research from MindHK revealed that an estimated one in five people in Hong Kong is dealing with a mental health issue.
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Fitness expo sets high expectations
There has been much research into the link between physical activity and mental health benefits. From cardio workouts to yoga, the consensus is that exercising the body is good for the mind. That is reason enough to hit the Hong Kong Fitness and Wellness Expo (HKFWE) on November 19 and 20 at AsiaWorld-Expo.
The three-day event aims to get people in Hong Kong active as the city slowly emerges from the fallout from the pandemic. The HKFWE showcases brands, products and services to help Hongkongers embrace a healthier, fitter and more balanced lifestyle, including a yoga stage, competitive events and a gym village.
