The Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention (CSRP) of HKU held a press conference on June 17 to release the results of its study on “Strengthen Family Relationships” and to present awards for the “Wellbeing Guardians” program in primary schools across Hong Kong. According to Professor Paul YIP Siu-Fai, Director of the Centre, their research found that 30 percent of secondary school students experienced declining mental health during the pandemic.
The research team pointed out that families spent more time together during the pandemic due to quarantine measures or special school arrangements, which led to significant changes in parent-child relationships. Spending prolonged periods together presented unique family challenges, such as increased stress, difficulty balancing work and family time, and conflicts over trivial matters. On the other hand, prolonged time together also created opportunities for improved family connections, communication, and support.
