Navigating Mental Health Crises | Up for Discussion with Jess Hulton and Désirée Fong

On this World Suicide Prevention Day, we invite you to join us for a heartfelt and important episode of Up for Discussion. We are honored to welcome Jess Hulton, Director and Founder of The New Normal (TNN) charity in Hong Kong, and Désirée Fong, Director of Equity and Inclusion on the TNN HK board.

In this episode, Jess and Désirée share their personal journeys that led them to establish TNN, a charity dedicated to challenging mental health stigma and providing peer support to those in need. With over 1,200 individuals benefiting from their services, TNN is making a significant impact in the community.

We will explore critical topics, including:

- The importance of peer support in mental health

- The cultural challenges surrounding mental health discussions in Hong Kong

- The alarming rise in suicide rates and the factors contributing to this crisis

- Practical strategies for preventing suicide and supporting those in distress

Jess and Désirée emphasise that suicide is one of the most preventable issues we face, and they share their insights on how open conversations and empathetic listening can save lives.

Tune in for this essential discussion as we shed light on mental health, the power of community, and the steps we can all take to support one another.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, we encourage you to reach out for help. Your mental health matters, and you are not alone.

Resources:

Hong Kong: Caritas 24-hour Crisis Line 18288

Singapore: Institute of Mental Health 6389 2222

India: 1Life +91 78930 78930

Mainland China: Crisis 800–810–1117 (for landline callers) or 010–8295–1332 (for mobile and VoIP callers)

Philippines: National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline 1553

Japan: TELL Lifeline 0800-300-8355

Other resources: www.iasp.info/suicidalthoughts/