Four new features have been added to the 18111 Mental Health Support Hotline from today, namely WhatsApp support, multi-language support, a scheduled call-back service, and additional optional services, with a view to enhancing mental health support for the public.

WhatsApp support

Mindful modern communication habits, the 18111 hotline now offers WhatsApp support, allowing users to send instant messages and receive immediate online support from trained staff.

The Health Bureau said this feature caters to younger people and anyone hesitant to make a phone call. It also enables citizens with hearing or speech impairments to seek assistance in a more convenient manner, thereby enhancing the hotline's accessibility.

Multi-language support

In addition to Cantonese, Mandarin and English, the hotline now supports nine other languages, namely Hindi, Nepali, Urdu, Punjabi, Bahasa Indonesia, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Bengali, and Thai.

Scheduled call-back

Users can request a call via phone, voicemail or WhatsApp. Staff will contact them at a scheduled time.

Additional optional services

Citizens can also receive information on support services and stress management techniques. Via the “Real People Library” function, they can listen to recordings of people in recovery talking about ways to cope with difficult situations and how to seek help. Available via voice navigation or WhatsApp, these additional services give users instant access to supporting information and advice.

Officiating at the “18111 Mental Health Support Hotline: the New Features Launch Ceremony” today, Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau said: “Drawing on 22 months of operational experience of the 18111 Mental Health Support Hotline, we have introduced four new features for the Hotline to respond to various needs of the public, offering more thoughtful, convenient, and comprehensive emotional support to the public.

“Should any member of the public be in mental distress or have mental health needs, I encourage them to call the Hotline to seek appropriate support.”