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The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, called on the public to care for young people's mental health and offer support and guidance to help them develop a positive attitude towards life.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of "Mental Health Month 2008" today (October 5), Mr Cheung said that this year's event aimed at enhancing young people's awareness of mental health and encouraging the public to focus more on the importance of their mental well-being.
"Everyone in Hong Kong faces different types of pressure and our young people are no exception. Not only do they have to cope with physical and psychological changes in adolescence, but they also have to deal with the pressure and challenges from families, peers, school and society.
"A wide range of activities will be held during Mental Health Month to instil in the mind of our young people the importance of leading a mentally healthy life and encourage them to develop a positive attitude towards life. The activities also seek to remind the public, family members and education workers in particular to pay more attention to the development of our youngsters and provide guidance and help in a timely manner.
"Interpersonal relationships and support networks are also of utmost importance to youth's mental health. I firmly believe that with care and support from family members, teachers and peers, young people will be able to handle stress better and build a positive and optimistic attitude towards life."
Mental Health Month, first held in 1995 and now into its 14th year, is jointly organised by the Labour and Welfare Bureau and government departments and non-governmental organisations. Details of the activities of Mental Health Month can be found on the Labour and Welfare Bureau website (www.lwb.gov.hk).
Ends/Sunday, October 5, 2008
Issued at HKT 14:15
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