Mental-health investment could strengthen Hong Kong’s economy
An opinion article argues that mental wellbeing should be treated as economic infrastructure in Hong Kong, where untreated distress can reduce productivity and increase healthcare costs. It cites research suggesting proactive workplace and digital interventions can deliver significant social and financial returns.
Mental wellbeing should be treated as part of Hong Kong’s economic infrastructure rather than as a peripheral social issue, an opinion article argues. The article says the city’s economy depends heavily on human capital, professional services and innovation. Untreated depression, anxiety and workplace stress can reduce productivity through absenteeism, presenteeism, errors and staff turnover.
It cites World Health Organization estimates that depression and anxiety cost the global economy 12 billion working days and US$1 trillion annually. University of Hong Kong modelling has estimated that depression could generate about HK$2.4bn in healthcare spending by 2032 if current trends continue. The article also points to evidence that early intervention may be economically beneficial.
A Deloitte analysis estimated that employers could receive an average £4.70 return for every £1 invested in workforce mental health. A local evaluation of the Open Up text-support platform estimated HK$226.1m in social value from HK$47.7m invested. It recommends expanding school and workplace support, improving access to evidence-based digital services and helping small firms adopt accredited wellness programmes.
The figures are based partly on modelling and proxy valuation, so the article says they should be interpreted cautiously.
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