On September 20, 2023, the School of Public Health (SPH) hosted a webinar titled "Building on Community Strengths for Mental Health - Models from Hong Kong and North America". The webinar featured presentations by Dr Mary Cwik, Associate Director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health (JHCIH); Dr Lucy Lord, Executive Chair of Mind HK; Dr Candice Powell, Chief Executive Officer of Mind HK; and Ms Rachel Wong, Assistant Programme Manager of Mind HK. 

Participants from Hong Kong and around the world commented on the various ways in which seniors are involved in youth mental health programs. The webinar showcased the work of JHCIH with White Mountain Apache leaders in addressing suicide prevention. It also highlighted the efforts of Mind HK in Hong Kong, focusing on the introduction of their iACT program and upcoming initiatives to bridge the gap in mental health services within the region. 

During the Q&A session, discussions arose regarding the shift from past generations' stigmatizing attitudes towards mental health to greater open-mindedness when family members are directly affected. At the conclusion of the event, Professor David Bishai, the Director of SPH, expressed his gratitude to the speakers and audience, reminding everyone that "Mental Health is everyone's business" and encouraging open discussions on the topic. 

To view the webinar, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNAb2FJ1Bpo

For more information about the work and services of Mind HK, please visit www.mind.org.hk and www.iact.hk.