Zurich HK introduces AR/VR tech for mental well-being with 'Chill Lab'

The initiative aims to promote youth mental well-being and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.

Zurich Hong Kong, Z Zurich Foundation, and The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong (MHAHK) have joined forces to launch Chill Lab, a mental health community program in Hong Kong. 

The initiative aims to promote youth mental well-being and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.

To raise awareness about mental well-being among the younger generation, the initiative incorporates innovative tools, campaigns, and solutions. Notably, it has introduced the first local experiential youth hub that utilises Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technology.

Over the course of three years, the program aims to reach 58% of Hong Kong secondary schools and positively impact more than 190,000 individuals. 

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Through this collaborative effort, Zurich Hong Kong, Z Zurich Foundation, and MHAHK aim to bring about systemic change and improve youth mental well-being in Hong Kong.

The program includes various prevention and promotion efforts in schools, a youth hub, and the community. 

The launch of Chill Lab is particularly timely as there is an urgent need for mental health services for Hong Kong's youth. 

A recent survey revealed that more than half of the interviewed youth exhibited emotional symptoms of depression and nearly half experienced high levels of stress.