Macau’s health authorities are intensifying efforts to improve public mental health services, aiming to boost support for residents and raise awareness about mental well-being. The initiative seeks to enhance professional training for healthcare providers while encouraging the community to actively pursue psychological care.
Mental health has garnered significant attention in the Special Administrative Region (SAR) after the number of suicides rose sharply in 2023. With 88 suicides recorded last year—a 10 percent increase over the previous year—and 62 suicides reported by the third quarter of 2024, the issue has become a pressing concern.
A recent survey conducted by the Mental Health Association of Hong Kong and Macau (MHAHK Macau) in collaboration with the Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST) revealed troubling findings. Nearly 40 percent of young adults aged 18 to 34 reported experiencing moderate-to-severe depression, with work, family, and financial issues identified as key stress factors. The survey also highlighted significant rates of anxiety and depression, with 27 percent of respondents reporting depression and 19 percent dealing with anxiety. Younger individuals (18-34 years old) were found to be more vulnerable to these mental health challenges than older respondents.
At the fourth plenary meeting of the 6th-term Council for Medical Affairs, led by Dr. Alvis Lo Iek Long, Director of the Health Bureau, officials discussed plans to address these alarming trends. Dr. Lo underscored the government’s “Action Plan for a Healthy Macao” and outlined the framework developed by the Mental Health Commission. A primary goal is to improve training for community health practitioners in mental health diagnosis and treatment, ensuring that mental health services are more accessible at the community level, alongside specialized care.
The Council also announced a comprehensive strategy to strengthen mental health prevention. This includes expanding the capacity of family doctor teams and enhancing training programs to ensure long-term, consistent mental health support for residents across all stages of life.
Dr. Kuok Wai Tak, President of the Mental Health Commission, and Dr. Wong Chi Peng, Head of the Our Lady of Carmel-Lago Health Centre, emphasized that residents with psychological difficulties can receive outpatient services at eight health centers, while the Psychiatry Service at Conde de São Januário Hospital Centre remains available 24/7 for specialized care.
Looking ahead, authorities plan to further optimize and expand mental health services. Key measures include increasing training for health professionals and promoting greater mental health awareness within the community. Additionally, recommendations were made to improve access to mental health consultation procedures and to incorporate mental health education into school curricula.
As the demand for mental health services continues to grow, the government remains committed to providing comprehensive support to the residents of Macau.
Related topics:
Kaiser Mental Health Workers’ Strike Leaves Patients Struggling with Delayed Care
Study Shows Browsing Negative Content Can Worsen Mental Health
Ontario MPP Reintroduces Bill to Honour Police Officers Who Die by Suicide
