Sunrise hiking challenge aims to help young Hong Kong adults with mental health issues to experience journey from darkness to dawn

Those joining Mental Health Foundation’s ‘Night to Light’ programme will trek up sunrise spots in Hong Kong and hold outdoor discussions

Charity, which has set itself a goal of advancing mental wellness, will use funds raised to hire instructors and therapists, and buy hiking gear

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The Mental Health Foundation’s Roni Heung (left), Dr Ting Sik-chuen and Stephen Wong in Central. Photo: Tory Ho

Published: 10:00am, 19 Nov 2019Updated: 10:52am, 19 Nov 2019

Hiking is a good workout. The challenge may also be an occasion for sharing experiences and developing a positive attitude towards mental health.

As part of a project to increase understanding of mental well-being and fight social stigma, a charity will trek up sunrise spots in Hong Kong with 25 young adults who have experienced mental health issues and hold discussions during the outdoor gathering.

Stephen Wong, a vice-chairman of the Mental Health Foundation, said the “Night to Light” programme aimed to let participants, aged between 18 and 24, experience a journey from darkness to dawn.

“We will watch the sunrise together,” he said. “We want to give them this message: darkness must pass.”

The free programme will be funded by Operation Santa Claus, the annual fundraiser organised by the South China Morning Post and public broadcaster RTHK.

Roni Heung (left), Dr Ting Sik-chuen and Stephen Wong. Photo: Tory Ho