Pursuing a research degree is an exciting, yet challenging journey. From academic stress to adjustment issues and personal problems, it can be overwhelming for some students at times. Taking care of your mental wellbeing is always important. Apart from sharing your concerns with supervisors, mentors and/or peers, you may also want to take note of the resources and support services available within and outside HKU to help you handle new challenges during your studies. Do reach out when you encounter difficulties and need support.
Future-Ready Series: Wellness Initiative
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To prepare students to excel academically and beyond, the “Future-Ready Series” is launched by the Graduate School in the 2023/24 academic year. In addition to academic and soft skills workshops for students’ professional development, sharing sessions and activities related to the promotion of mental wellness are also highlighted. Applications are considered on a first-come-first-served basis. Please look out for our email announcements and refer to our website for details.
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Support from the Centre of Development and Resources for Students (CEDARS)
The Counselling and Person Enrichment Section of CEDARS offers tailor-made educational programmes and support services to help postgraduate students not only achieve academic success during their stay at HKU but also develop psychosocial wellbeing as well as positive attitudes for their future success.
Enquiries:(852) 3917-8388 / cedars-cope@hku.hk
Address: Room 301-323, 3/F, Main Building, HKU
Professional Counselling Service
Individual counselling service is offered by a team of professional Clinical Psychologists and Counsellors to support students in handling university adjustment, personal issues, relationship problems and improving psychological health. The service is confidential and free-of-charge.
Workshops on effective learning, stress and time management, social and emotional competence, relationship and communication as well as the Certificate Course on Mental Health First Aid are offered to help students explore and develop their potentials.
A series of coping tips and videos on guided relaxation and mindfulness exercises (available in different languages) are available. Effective ways in managing key areas related to students’ wellbeing are also provided in the “Mental Health & Enrichment Information” section.
Jockey Club TourHeart+ Project
CEDARS-CoPE partners with TourHeart+ in providing online mental health support resources to students. Log on to the platform for an exclusive gateway. Explore the self-assessment tools, psychological interventions, and training resources available to help you prioritise your mental wellbeing.
The survey aims at exploring students’ psychosocial needs and interested areas in person enrichment. New students are encouraged to complete the survey so that CEDARS can help identify services and resources that match your needs to adjust better to HKU life.
Various learning and psychological assessments are available at this web-based Psychological Profile to monitor how well students are doing at HKU and identify ways to achieve university success. Immediate feedback, recommendation and enrichment tips are available. All online assessments are free-of-charge.
Support for Students with Disabilities or Special Educational Needs
CEDARS is the one-stop service unit for students with physical and sensory disabilities, learning and developmental disabilities, mental illnesses, chronic medical illnesses, or multiple disabilities. Its services include support on academic studies, counselling service, support for application of university housing, provision of funding to procure learning aids/equipment, and also access to information and resources.
This student-oriented outpost, with a Zen garden design, is an ideal spot on campus to chillax. Drop by and enjoy the serenity on site to soothe your mind. Also stay tuned for regular updates from CEDARS-CoPE on different workshops available.
Other Resources and Support Services
The Psychological Services Unit under HKU Department of Psychology is a training clinic that provides comprehensive clinical and educational psychology services, and produces psycho-educational materials for the general public. Their services are mainly rendered by postgraduate trainees in clinical psychology and in educational psychology, under the direct supervision of teaching staff who are experienced practitioners.
Mind HK is a mental health charity that offers online resources and support on mental health.
Open Up is a 24/7 online text platform designed specifically to cater the needs of youngsters experiencing emotional distress.
WhatsApp/SMS: (852) 9101-2012
headwind (in Chinese only)
headwind is a project under HKU Department of Psychiatry. Online mental health support services including remote mental health intervention and free consultations with psychiatrists are offered.
Fuel My Mind (in Chinese only)
Under HKU Social and Health Psychology Lab’s Hong Kong Psychology and Health Project, the website provides simple tips on coping with emotion and stress, aiming to increase public awareness towards mental health.
Shall We Talk is a mental health promotion and public education initiative launched by the Advisory Committee on Mental Health. A wide range of mental health resources and support information are available on their website.
Heartline Hong Kong (in Chinese only)
Heartline Hong Kong is founded by a group of university students, aiming to provide a platform for youth to share their thoughts and concerns.
Disclaimer: The Graduate School does not assume responsibility for the resources/quality of services provided by the listed agencies. The above list is not exhaustive. Inclusion on the list does not imply endorsement and omission does not indicate disapproval.