Perinatal Mental Health in Hong Kong
Pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period can bring joy as well as stress, grief, and uncertainty. Parents may experience a range of emotions, from sadness and anxiety to relief or numbness. While these feelings are common, they can sometimes become persistent, and understanding perinatal mental health can help you know when to seek support.
This page provides general information and resources for support. It is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are struggling, experiencing distressing thoughts, or are in crisis, please reach out to a qualified mental health professional or contact the emergency hotlines listed below.
What is Perinatal Mental Health?
Perinatal mental health refers to emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. Conditions can range from mild mood fluctuations to more significant disorders, and they affect both parents—not just mothers.
Estimates suggest that around one‑third (approximately 33 %) of Hong Kong mothers may experience probable postnatal depression and require further health assessment — a level that reflects the significant impact of emotional distress in the postpartum period (HKUMed, 2023).
Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMAD)
Perinatal Anxiety – Persistent worry, tension, or intrusive thoughts that interfere with daily life.
Postpartum Depression (PPD) – Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest lasting more than two weeks after birth.
Panic Disorder - Sudden, intense episodes of fear or panic (panic attacks) with physical symptoms like a racing heart, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Intrusive thoughts about harm or safety of your baby, paired with repetitive behaviors to reduce anxiety.
Postpartum Psychosis – Severe confusion, hallucinations, or delusions requiring urgent medical attention.
Adjustment Difficulties – Stress or overwhelm related to the transition into parenthood.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the likelihood of perinatal mental health struggles:
History of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions
Limited social support or relationship stress
Complications during pregnancy or birth
Sleep deprivation or postpartum fatigue
Life stressors such as work, relocation, or financial pressure
Seeking Support
It’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider if you notice any of these persisting more than two weeks or affecting your daily life:
Persistent sadness, irritability, or anxiety
Difficulty bonding with your baby
Changes in appetite or sleep unrelated to the baby’s schedule
Feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or guilty
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby (seek immediate help—see helplines below)
Hong Kong Support
If you ever feel you might harm yourself or your baby, call these hotlines immediately or go to the nearest A&E.
Mental Health Support Hotline - 18111 or Whatsapp message (852)18111
Samaritans Hong Kong Hotline – 2389 2222
Other non-crisis support services include:
The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong (FPAHK) - Counselling and support for parents, including postpartum emotional health.
Mind HK – iACT Service - Offers internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) for mild anxiety, depression, and stress.
International Resources
There are a number of excellent international resources. Here are a few of our favourites:
Postpartum Support International (USA) – Global support groups and information
COPE (Australia) – Provides support and psychoeducation for parents experiencing perinatal mental health challenges.
How Willow Can Support in Hong Kong and Online
Free Peer-Support Groups
A safe, understanding space to share experiences and connect with others who have lived experience. Online & in-person. Always free
Professional Counselling
Professional mental health support in the format that fits you best, in our office, your home, online, or through a gentle walk and talk.
WhatsApp Support Communities
Moderated groups for perinatal mood support, miscarriage, TFMR, stillbirth, or pregnancy after loss.
Doula Support for Perinatal Loss
Compassionate care for families experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth, or pregnancy after loss.
Want to explore first what Willow support might look like for you or a loved one? Schedule a complimentary connection call, and we’ll figure it out together.
Further Resources in Development
Willow is actively developing additional guidance resources to support families navigating pregnancy and infant loss in Hong Kong. These resources will complement our existing groups, counselling, and perinatal loss doula services, and are designed to help families:
Understand the different types of loss and common emotional responses
Access appropriate local and international support pathways
Navigate hospital and community services in Hong Kong
These resources will be gently guided and evidence-informed, reflecting the unique challenges families face in Hong Kong. Families can begin engaging with Willow’s existing support now, while these new materials are being finalized.