King Chan Kai-man, a recent psychology graduate from City University, is focused on addressing mental health in Hong Kong, where unmanaged stress is a growing concern. At just 22 years old, Chan is set to pursue an MPhil in clinical psychology at the University of Cambridge, advocating for the importance of mental health in individual lives and society.
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Chan observes that while manageable stress can promote growth, prolonged stress can lead to various forms of distress, including disrupted sleep, fatigue, and heightened anxiety. He emphasizes the need to care for both physical and mental health equally. Chan has a personal commitment to helping those in distress, aligning with his values of promoting well-being.
In March 2023, as a psychological-wellness ambassador at CityU, Chan organized a mindfulness exhibition he anticipated would have low attendance. Contrary to his expectations, hundreds of staff and students engaged with the event, trying out breathing exercises and relaxing, which helped reduce the stigma around mental health. Visitors reported a lack of awareness regarding available support and some hesitated to seek help due to perceived shame.
Chan notes that Hong Kong's productivity-driven culture often glamorizes relentless work, leading individuals to ignore stress until it becomes severe. He believes that early intervention is essential, having gained insights during his internship at a mental health charity. He worked alongside practitioners who provided low-intensity psychological services, realizing that even those with mild symptoms often need more support.
His study tours in Britain and Singapore further shaped his vision on integrating mental health services into broader support systems. Chan advocates for a scaled approach to mental health in Hong Kong, where community awareness and services are improving but still face high demand. Current psychiatric care often results in long wait times, highlighting the need for stable and accessible support systems. The government's Healthy Mind project, which aims to offer free assessments and referrals, represents a positive step forward in this regard.
With the AIA Scholarship aiding his studies, Chan is committed to making mental health care more accessible and affordable. He aims to research mood and personality disorders during his MPhil studies, with a long-term goal of enhancing access to mental health care and support for the high-pressure environment in Hong Kong.
To manage his stress, Chan engages in manual coffee brewing, using it as a mindful practice that keeps him present amid the chaos of life.