Raising awareness and supporting the vulnerable through Jazz for Mental Health 2018

We were honoured to sponsor the MindHK Media Awards event — Jazz for Mental Health — held on 15^th November in Hong Kong. The formal event brought together people passionate about breaking the stigma around mental health in the city and territory. At Aetna International, we believe that breaking down barriers and stigmas associated with mental health is crucial in the move towards helping people achieve total well-being and happiness.

Held at beachside hotel The Repulse Bay, the Mind Media Awards event was designed to drive awareness and acceptance of mental health, removing the stigma often associated with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. MindHK is a non-profit organisation that promotes and supports the destigmatisation of mental health and the transformation of mental health care in the communities of Hong Kong.

Mental health in Hong Kong

One out of seven people in Hong Kong has a common mood disorder and three-quarters do not seek professional support. It is believed that the high incidents of stress, anxiety and depression in the region stems from social and economic pressures in the fast-paced territory. These pressures and resulting mental health conditions affect adolescents and children as well as adults — the result of a highly competitive education system.

Kevin Jones, Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong, Aetna International, presented the Making a Difference Award. The accolade, which is presented to an individual or organisation in recognition of their outstanding contribution to improving the portrayal of mental health in the media, was presented to Lee Long Yee. Jones said, “We hope events such as Jazz for Mental Health encourage a positive, ethical and balanced portrayal of mental health through in the local media and beyond. We believe that increasing awareness and knowledge around mental health issues and increasing the support available can change attitudes towards those with mental health, and the behaviours of those coping with the issue. We believe in helping vulnerable people access the care and support they need, when and where they need it most.”

For more information about our approach to mental health and our health and wellness benefits, please contact your sales or account manager.

Photographs show: Guests, speakers and award winner, Lee Long Yee, enjoying the Jazz for Mental Health evening.

Aetna® is a trademark of Aetna Inc. and is protected throughout the world by trademark registrations and treaties.