Lawmaker urges 24-hour online psychological counseling platform

Lawmaker Nick Lei, referencing findings from last year’s “Macau Mental Health Survey,” which revealed that 27% of respondents experienced depression and 19% faced anxiety disorders, has urged the authorities to promptly launch a 24-hour online psychological counseling platform and hotline.

His written inquiry was submitted to the government in response to the recent increase in suicides and attempted suicides in Macau.

“When it comes to residents’ lives, we cannot assess the severity of the situation based solely on data. The primary causes of suicide are linked to gambling or financial issues, mental illness, and chronic or physical diseases.

This matter concerns not only the mental and psychological health of residents but also the policies of the government across various sectors, which cannot be overlooked,” he stated.

Lei acknowledged that mental health efforts in Macau still face significant challenges. He urged the government to take proactive measures, such as increasing the number of professional personnel, optimizing service networks, and raising public awareness through effective publicity, to comprehensively improve residents’ mental health.

Additionally, he emphasized that “it is essential to strengthen the support system and encourage more individuals in need to actively seek help, thereby reducing the occurrence of tragedies.”

With survey results indicating that over half of respondents experiencing emotional distress did not seek professional help due to busy lifestyles or a belief in their ability to cope on their own, Lei questioned the authorities about what measures are being taken to encourage those affected to actively seek support.

Additionally, Lei requested the government to clarify whether it plans to conduct a detailed assessment that combines suicide data, services, personnel, and service models.

He also sought an explanation of the mental health assessment indicators included in the Healthy Macao Blueprint, which address the formulation and updating of mental health policies and plans.