In the wake of the pandemic, our encounters with user groups suffering from mental illness have rocketed. Now, more than ever, we find ourselves immersed in conversations that promote the transformative power of public spaces, as they hold the key to healing and restoration. Prepare to be spellbound as we unveil the captivating story of #healing matters. How can a city for healing be envisioned, both physically and mentally?
COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health globally, and Hong Kong is no exception. The city’s dense population and high levels of stress despite the pandemic have made the citizens particularly vulnerable to mental health issues during the challenging time. The increased rates of anxiety and depression among the general population in Hong Kong were caused by factors such as social isolation, fear of infection, economic uncertainty, and disruptions in daily routines, contributing to the worsening mental health of many individuals.
- Can mental health be an affordable benefit in public space for all?
- Can interpersonal interactions be fostered in the places imbued with trauma?
- Can community networks be reconstructed in the public realm for future resilience?
We hope to explore more.
Several NGOs and academies have done surveys on mental health in Hong Kong. According to Mind HK, 37.7% of respondents said their mental health has gotten worse since January 2022. However, the survey is not sex-seggregated or including any demographic breakdown. Data related to public space and mental illness barely exist.
We hope the initiative can move the discussion forward.
#mentalhealth #postraumaticdesign #urbanmindfulness