Why Hong Kong must make mental health an immediate economic priority

South China Morning PostEN 2 min read 100% complete by Paul Yip,Raymond Lap-Ming Tang,Isabel ChauMarch 8, 2026 at 02:30 AM

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Hong Kong's new budget, projecting a surplus due to a strong stock market, prioritizes innovation and finance for economic growth. While allocating significant funds to health, social welfare, and education, the article argues that Hong Kong must urgently address mental health as a key economic priority. Recent studies reveal a significant portion of the population suffers from mental disorders, with rising suicide rates, particularly among young men. Long wait times for psychiatric treatment exacerbate the problem. The article emphasizes the economic benefits of investing in mental health, citing WHO data that shows a return of $4 for every $1 invested in treatment for depression and anxiety.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States 40% Hospital Authority 60% World Health Organization 60% Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention 70% Hong Kong ×790%

Keywords

mental health 100% hong kong 90% economic priority 80% budget 70% suicide rate 60% artificial intelligence 50% anxiety 50% workforce renewal 40% health 40%