In 1995, Mr Chan found himself having developed much suspicion towards other people. He believed he was being targeted by others. His mistrust had gradually extended to his family members. He became socially withdrawn and his mood became increasingly irritable. With the persuasion from family members, he was admitted to hospital for treatment. He was diagnosed to be suffering from "Delusional Disorder", a form of mental illness.

With psychiatric and psychological treatment, Mr Chan's mental health problem was gradually stabilised. From denial to acceptance, Mr Chan considered the change of attitude towards his mental illness a long journey. In the process, he found assistance from three sources crucial for him, namely professional treatment, acceptance from supervisors and colleagues, and family support. Mr Chan was determined to face his mental health problem actively when he thought about his family members' patience and kind support over the period when he was mentally disturbed.

Mr Chan has already resumed duty and performs well at work. His relationship with family members also became closer. He found that suffering from mental illness did not imply the end of the world. Instead, he learnt to face adversity with resilience during the rehabilitation process. He also became more sensitive and considerate to others' feelings and needs. There was significant improvement in his interpersonal relationship.

The story of Mr Chan shows that with proper treatment, most psychiatric patients can rehabilitate. Your support as a family member, a friend, or a colleague is essential.

Consent has been obtained from the writer to publish this article.

Stress management workshops

The PSG will organise a series of stress management workshops to be conducted in Chinese.

* Date (choose one):

(1) February 23

(2) March 9

* Time: 9 am - 12.15 pm

* Venue: Police Sports and Recreation Club Meeting Room

* Reservation: PSG (2866-6207)

Thirty places for each session will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.

Seek advice and help from the Psychological Services Group:

PHQ, Hong Kong Island and Marine: 2866-6206 (5/F, 111 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay); Kowloon and the New Territories: 2735-3739 (22/F, Ocean Building, 80 Shanghai Street, Kowloon).PEN:psg@police.gov.hk