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Message from the Honourary Psychological Consultant, Dr. Paul Wong
Message from Dr. Paul W.C. Wong,
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It is my great honour and privilege to write this so that I can thank all the volunteers and supporters of the Samaritans in the past few years to make Hong Kong a caring place during the most challenging moments in the history of Hong Kong.
The latest research findings of the world suicide situations have suggested that there has not been an exponential increase in suicides during the COVID-19. Yet, due to many social, political, and health factors, many individuals’ mental health and family cohesion have been worsened by that. Many people have not been feeling so isolated, lonely, hopeless about self, others, and the future, worry, and despair in their lives. When people have a “tunnel vision” about themselves and the future, thinking of ending their lives seem to be the only viable solution to them.
Social support, as one of the most robust protective factors for suicide, play a significant role when ‘social distancing’ acts as the axial of many public health measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 all over the world. A big thank you to the volunteers in the Samaritans, suicide prevention services continue, regardless, and many despaired lives are touched by your caring hearts.
I am very proud to be part of the Samaritans and also very grateful to have observed that with many new initiatives of the Samaritans, Hong Kong is becoming an even more socially inclusive city and, one day, suicide will never be a viable permanent solution to some temporary problems for many wounded souls. I strongly believe that every life is a miracle and when we are down and lost, help is around if we ask for it. There will always be some Samaritans around us and when they offer their help, accept it. Help-seeking is a sign of strength, not weakness.
With my deepest gratitude to all the Samaritans in the Samaritans,
