Explainer | 2 cases have put mental health in focus. How does Hong Kong handle psychiatric patients?

A Hong Kong police officer fatally shot a knife-wielding man on Sunday when he allegedly ignored repeated warnings after attacking his wife and mother in North Point. It was later revealed the man had a history of schizophrenia.

The High Court also heard a case this week of a schizophrenic outpatient who admitted killing his neighbour three years ago and pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

The Post explains the circumstances under which psychiatric patients are required to be hospitalised or can be discharged. Experts also explain how members of the public can navigate around people with mental health conditions without harming the patients or themselves.

1. Under what conditions can psychiatric patients be hospitalised?

Mental illness covers a wide range of conditions that affect an individual’s cognition, emotional regulation or behaviour.

The Mental Health Ordinance stipulates that patients with mental illness can be detained in hospital for observation and indefinite treatment for having a serious condition or if they pose a danger to themselves or other people.

Psychiatrist Michael Wong Ming-cheuk, chairman of the Hong Kong Association of Psychosocial Rehabilitation, said a lack of adequate care in a patient’s living environment could also warrant hospitalisation.

For instance, if a patient is unable to take care of themself, they can be admitted to hospital to ensure their basic needs are met when their guardian cannot look after them.