Nowhere Home
Olivia (alias) used to live with her grandmother in an old village while her parents live in another place in Mainland China. Born in HK, Olivia was arranged by her parents to stay with her paternal aunt’s family in HK. Her parents insisted that she should stay in HK while her aunt only promised short-term care. Conflicts arose between her uncle and her aunt who suffered depression, thus hostel service was requested.
Referral to “3R” services
The 15-year-old Olivia started to displayed emotional and behavioral issues which affected her school life and appetite. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the girl was afraid to face her English teacher in Zoom class and cried even while doing newspaper clipping. Owing to the pressure from homework and quarrels among her roommates, she became more annoyed. Hostel social worker then referred the girl to the “Right Care, Right Time & Right Team (3R) Project”. After assessment by family doctor, Olivia was referred to clinical psychologist (CP). Upon the 5th session, she was diagnosed insomnia and anxiety. CP also referred her to psychiatrist for medication.
Hostel
Knowing the girl needs more space and needs to prepare for upcoming public exams, hostel social worker helped arrange another independent room with more mature roommates. Together with extra care and concern, she could focus on her studying.
Counseling
3R CP took initiative to understand and assist in resolving some of her psychological and practical problems. CP taught her to handle emotional swings and pressure from family and school. CP also advised her to write down the happy and memorable things which remind her that someone loves her.
Psychiatric treatment
Medication helped Olivia sleep better and avoid overthinking. 3R psychiatrist was very attentive. He adjusted the dosage and treatment plan according to her latest condition. The outcome was remarkable. Her emotional swings reduced. With a calm mind, she can think more positively. Psychiatrist also prescribed appetite stimulants that helped her regain some weight.
Olivia felt lucky that she can receive multi-professional services from 3R project.
She believes many children and youth in the society also need such services. Hope that 3R project can gain more support from people in the society.
“Right Care, Right Time & Right Team (3R) Project”
