Life of Guangzhou - HK Youngsters Unaffected by Crisis

According to a survey, 80 percent of the young people in Hong Kong are feeling happy although pessimistic sentiments are brewing amidst the financial crisis.

The survey also showed that young people who are full of hope and optimistic can better handle adverse situations and feel happier.

To greet the World Mental Health Dayon Friday, Hong Kong Christian Service's teen club conducted the survey and appealed to the young people to make the most of their capabilities and live a happy life.

Over 530 young people aged 12-21 were interviewed last month.

On average, 80 percent responded that their happiness index was 4.3 on a scale of 6. When asked to choose the virtues they wanted to possess, most of the young people wanted to be full of hope and optimism, humorous, have curiosity and an interest in the world, and be meticulous and cautious, creative, courageous and enthusiastic.

In the opinion of social worker Apple Tse who handled the survey, the result showed that young people in Hong Kong are happy in general. Even though Hong Kong is amidst a financial crisis, the young people are still happy because they do not have any first-hand feelings with the financial crisis. She suggested parents share more positive stories and messages with the young people, while young people should join extra-curricular activities to broaden their vision.

Ken Cheng, 20, said he felt perplexed and lost when he left school after completing secondary three five years ago and failed to find a job. The "empty period" lasted for six months during which his relations with his parents were not good. After finding and pursuing his interest in rope skipping, he has become a trainer to coach children. He is very happy now because he has found the right job and derives a sense of success from the job.

By Joseph Li

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