The Mental Health Project Team at the Division of Public Policy, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, has been invited to serve as guest speakers for the enlightening workshop titled "Improving Family Communication Through Active Listening and Healthy Emotional Expression". This event is intended for ethnic minority families and will be hosted by Lady Maclehose Centre.

During the session, we will provide insights and strategies for improving communication within your family. We will cover topics such as active listening, effective communication techniques, conflict resolution, and mental health first aid. Participants are expected to learn how to express their thoughts and feelings in a constructive way, and how to listen to others with empathy and understanding, thereby improving their mental well-being.

It is essential for children to develop effective strategies for managing their emotions, enabling them to develop social-emotional skills. When children have a strong grasp of social and emotional awareness, they can navigate relationships more effectively, regulate their emotions during challenging situations, and engage in problem-solving. Encouraging the open expression of positive emotions and nurturing warm, supportive relationships between parents and children are essential for promoting effective emotional self-regulation.

In addition to these skills, it is equally important to understand the signs and symptoms of mental health issues. This brings us to the next focus of our workshop—Mental Health First Aid. Our speaker will address topics such as recognizing these signs and symptoms, providing support and assistance to individuals in crisis, and connecting individuals with appropriate resources and treatment options.