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SCMP Editorial
SCMP Editorial

Editorial | Family’s death a wake-up call for better mental health support in Hong Kong

The suspected murder-suicide came as the city is seeing a rise in the number of people suffering symptoms of depression

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A 37-year-old man is suspected of murdering his wife and two children before jumping to his death from a Hong Kong hotel, police have said. Photo: May Tse
SCMP Editorial
A suspected murder-suicide involving a young family in Hong Kong must serve as a wake-up call for the city to redouble efforts to tackle mental health issues. While an investigation of the tragedy is still under way, facts already known about the case should focus attention on a recent spike in depression cases and the need for a better response.
The 37-year-old father is believed to have used a knife to take the lives of his wife and their two sons, aged three and six. Police also believe he then jumped to his death from the hotel where they were staying. The motive appeared to be rooted in mental health problems.

The family had reportedly lived in the suite for months. They planned to emigrate to Britain but their departure had been delayed because one of the boys needed medical treatment.

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Police said the family was not linked to any past domestic violence cases. The father, a former customs inspector, had resigned for personal reasons in mid-June and been on leave since May. Though unemployed, he was not known to have financial issues.

However, the man had posted on social media about his emotional problems and worries about not being able to care for his family. The Post learned that he suffered from depression and was being treated at a private clinic in Tuen Mun. His late wife and a brother were reportedly aware he was ill.

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The case underscores a rise in the number of local people who experience depression. A poll released in December found that over half of Hongkongers had such symptoms, the highest proportion in seven years. The HK.WeCare survey also found more than 10 per cent of respondents reported feeling down, depressed or hopeless “almost every day”.
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