Today marked the first day of the Mental Health First Aid workshop, organised by Rotary Club of Hong Kong North Point; co-organised by Rotary Club of Braemar Hill and Rotary Club of Balance and Joy, supported by NAAC Hong Kong(鄰舍輔導會). 🧠❤️‍🩹⛑️

Day 1 went from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with a focused lens on supporting elderly individuals. It was an intense yet deeply enriching experience that opened our eyes to the complexities of mental health challenges faced by older adults. 25 members , potential members, school
Partner teachers, and Rotaractors joined.👍🏼

We explored a range of mental illnesses—depression, anxiety, dementia, and psychosis. Each with its own set of symptoms, stigmas, and support strategies. What struck us most was how often these conditions go unnoticed or are misunderstood in elderly populations, sometimes dismissed as “just aging.” This reinforced the importance of awareness and early intervention.🙏🏻

One of the most valuable takeaways was learning effective questioning techniques—how to approach someone in distress with empathy, how to listen without judgment, and how to ask the right questions that open doors rather than shut them. These skills felt not only practical but also profoundly humanizing. 5-step Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE) : Assess, Listen, Get Support , Encourage Professional Help and Encourage Self help is an effective tool to handle different scenarios. ✅

The workshop also challenged us to reflect on our own perceptions and biases. It reminded us that offering mental health support isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being present, compassionate, and willing to walk alongside someone in their moment of need. 🫂

Participants are looking forward to Day 2 (8/11) with anticipation—ready to deepen the understanding, sharpen the skills, and continue growing into a more mindful and supportive community! We are proud of you!👏🏼