JOURNAL ARTICLE

Reports from University of Hong Kong Advance Knowledge in Health and Medicine (Cost-benefit analysis of a 24/7 text-based online emotional support platform for at-risk youth in Hong Kong).

  • Published In: Mental Health Weekly Digest, 2026. P. 721 1 of 2

  • Database: Psychology Source 2 of 2

Abstract

The article focuses on a cost-benefit analysis of OpenUp, a 24/7 text-based online emotional support counselling service for youth in Hong Kong, conducted by researchers at the University of Hong Kong. Using social return on investment (SROI) methods, the study estimated that OpenUp generated a total social value of HK$226 million against an investment of HK$47.7 million, with suicide risk reduction accounting for 75.4% of this value. The service, accessible via WhatsApp, Facebook, SMS, and a web portal, served 19,543 users aged 11 to 35 between December 2020 and May 2022. While the findings suggest significant social benefits, the researchers advise cautious interpretation due to reliance on modeling and proxy monetization, emphasizing the need for ongoing investment and evaluation integrating online and offline interventions. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Mental Health Weekly Digest. 2026/03, p721
  • Document Type:Abstract
  • Subject Area:Religion and Philosophy
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:1543-6616
  • Accession Number:192553402
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