Gov’t launches 24-hour online student counseling platform

The Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ) has launched a 24-hour online student counseling platform this September, offering real-time support through WeChat, Instagram, and Facebook.

The platform aims to provide immediate guidance and proactively reach students in need.

According to DSEDJ, professional counselors will deliver psychological support and emotional guidance, and through interactive features and instant messaging, “they can promptly identify and assist students, offering positive guidance, appropriate counseling, and referral information.”

“It aims to create a safe, private, and accessible channel for students to express their feelings, navigate the challenges of growing up, and help parents better understand and support their children,” the bureau said.

Students in need can call the 24-hour counseling hotline at 2833 3113 to receive professional support.

Earlier this year, the child and adolescent psychiatry department at Conde de São Januário Hospital treated over 5,000 young patients, according to data from the Health Bureau (SSM).

Last week, authorities marked World Suicide Prevention Day by emphasizing the city’s growing network of mental health services and the importance of raising awareness around emotional well-being.

In a statement, the SSM once again urged society to act as “guardians of life” by listening, offering support, and guiding those experiencing emotional distress to appropriate resources.

Currently, nine community health centers provide outpatient mental health consultations and psychotherapy, while the Psychiatry Department at Conde de São Januário Hospital offers a 24-hour emergency service for urgent cases.

In addition, two non-profit organizations receive government support to expand access to psychological consultations.

The bureau also stressed the availability of a 24-hour helpline operated by Caritas at 2852 5222 and an online mental health information portal in Chinese and Portuguese.

The platform provides guidance on stress, depression, anxiety, and sleep health, as well as relaxation techniques and self-assessment tools.

According to the SSM, between June and August, more than 17,700 residents participated in workshops and community programs on topics ranging from child and adolescent psychological well-being to physical exercise for overall mental health.

Statistics show that the number of suicides in the city reached 90 in 2024, surpassing 2023’s total of 88, the highest recorded in the past decade.