Survey finds HK people anxiety and depression at record high
發佈日期: 2026-03-05 21:46
TVB News


A survey by the Mental Health Association of Hong Kong found that the depression and anxiety indices among Hong Kong people have reached record highs. The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong, along with the Chinese University of Hong Kong's Department of Social Work, interviewed 2,695 people through street booths and online questionnaires. The results showed that the overall average depression score reached 7.27 which is 0.9 points higher than the previous survey done in 2023 and the highest since the survey began in 2012. The proportion of people falling into the "moderate-to-severe depression" group was 13.1 percent, 2 percent higher than that of 2023. The overall average anxiety score also reached a record high of 5.9 points. Among all age groups, the mental health situation of Generation Z - those aged between 18 to 24 - was the most worrying. 43.5 percent of them were affected by moderate to severe depression. Experts noted that while the cause of depression can be complex, data shows that depression scores are positively correlated to the average time spent using electronic screens. The survey also found that roughly one-fifth of the respondents would turn to artificial intelligence (AI) for help when they face emotional problems. Ching Chi-kong, an experienced psychiatrist said relying solely on AI for help can be dangerous as their findings suggest the levels of depression or anxiety will increase if people completely rely on AI, adding that establishing relationships with people is crucial in the process of "healing". The organisation also reminded the public that if they find themselves experiencing persistent emotional problems, they should proactively seek professional help.
