Hongfu Garden Fire | The Hong Kong Psychological Society Concerned About Supporting Staff's Emotional and Physical Stress

The government recently公布ed the detailed arrangements for residents of the Tai Po Wang Fu Court at Hong Fu Mansion (Hong Fook Court) to return to their units to collect their belongings, and expects that about 1,000 support personnel will be mobilized each day to assist residents in returning to their units. Many support personnel will also participate in the assistance and preparation work at the places where residents are currently staying. The Hong Kong Psychological Society’s Clinical Psychology Division thanks all support personnel for their efforts and dedication, and also takes into account the shocks and challenges support personnel may face during the process, as well as the various emotional and physical stress reactions that may arise.

If support personnel need to provide on-site support at Hong Fu Mansion (Hong Fook Court), or accompany residents to Hong Fu Mansion or back to their units, it is recommended that their attire for the day should mainly consist of light, comfortable sportswear. You can also familiarize yourself in advance with information about the units and households you are responsible for, such as the block number, floor and location of the unit, the extent of damage, the number of residents, the number of residents permitted to enter the unit, and whether anyone in the household has passed away.

During the process of assisting and accompanying residents to return to their units to collect their belongings, support personnel may encounter shocks and challenges at varying levels. Even with sufficient communication and preparation, support personnel still need to be mentally prepared. During the process of assisting residents with collecting items after they return to their units, various unexpected situations may arise. When needed, they should proactively seek support and assistance. It is important to pay attention to safety in the现场 environment and maintain close communication with other support personnel, and to familiarize themselves in advance with emergency evacuation routes.

During the process of supporting residents to return to their units to collect their belongings, or after completing the support work, support personnel’s emotions may be affected, or physical and mental stress reactions may occur, including cognitive reactions, emotional reactions, behavioral reactions, and physical reactions. If you or any support personnel nearby experience ongoing emotional distress and your daily life is clearly affected, please seek professional help promptly. Proactively reaching out for help is a brave and responsible action.