Opinion | Post-pandemic mental health issues should not be taken lightly

Dr. Kevin Lau

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many elderly individuals and chronic illness patients have succumbed to severe pneumonia, acute respiratory system diseases, and subsequent multiple organ dysfunction, resulting in death. As a result, many people developed anxiety and fear regarding the severity of pneumonia and the fear of death. These anxieties stemmed not only from concerns about their own health but also from the fear of losing loved ones and worries about various aspects of life. I believe that the pandemic has significantly impacted everyone's mental health, leaving a lasting impression.

According to statistics from the World Health Organization, from early 2020 to April 2022, over 6.2 million people worldwide have died due to the pandemic. Healthcare workers have been at the forefront when it comes to dealing with mental stress. Based on the nature of their work, they inevitably come into contact with patients and face the possibility of transmitting the infection to their families. The stress of long working hours and frequent exposure to patient deaths further exacerbates their anxiety. Beyond healthcare workers, the general public has also faced challenges. Shortages of personal protective equipment have caused many people to scramble for masks. Governments around the world have implemented strict isolation measures to reduce the chances of infection. The magnitude of the mental stress faced by the general population can be imagined.

The situation in Hong Kong is no different. The social isolation during the pandemic has suppressed the emotions of many individuals. Now that life has returned to normal, the post-pandemic anxieties and low moods are rarely mentioned, despite several unfortunate incidents related to mental health occurring last year alone. This issue must be addressed because simply resuming daily routines is not enough. If everyone carries mental distress into their lives, it is like a ticking time bomb. Hong Kong residents must have a healthy mental state to fully engage in rebuilding their lives after the pandemic.

Recently, the Hong Kong SAR government has integrated more than 20 helplines and launched the government-funded "Mental Health Support Hotline 18111" providing one-stop support services for citizens of different ages and backgrounds. I strongly support this initiative. Mental stress should not be ignored, and it is crucial to seek someone to talk to during times of emotional instability. This will allow citizens struggling with their emotions to receive immediate emotional relief. Once emotions stabilize, unfortunate incidents can be avoided.

The author is a specialist in radiology with a Master of Public Health from the University of Hong Kong, and an adviser of Our Hong Kong Foundation.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of DotDotNews.