Mental Health of Foreign Domestic Helpers | How Employers Can Care and Protect
Recently, Hong Kong has seen several tragic cases of foreign domestic helpers taking their own lives, including incidents in Discovery Bay and Sheung Shui. These remind us that helpers working far from home often face much more mental pressure than employers may realise.
As an employer, your responsibility goes beyond offering a good working and living environment, it also includes caring for your helper’s mental health and noticing early signs of stress before problems become serious.
Why Do Helpers Experience Mental Stress?
Many foreign domestic helpers have been away from their families for years. They must adapt to a new culture, language, and lifestyle, while also carrying heavy financial responsibilities. Most send money home every month to support their families.
In recent years, more helpers have fallen into financial difficulties after borrowing money in Hong Kong. Some take out loans without fully understanding the terms or interest rates, ending up trapped in debt or facing illegal debt collection.
When financial problems, homesickness, and work stress combine, and there is no one to talk to mental health problems can easily develop.
How Employers Can Support Their Helpers’ Mental Health
The relationship between employer and helper is more than just a contract, it is built on trust and respect. A caring employer who communicates regularly can often notice early signs of distress and offer timely help.
Here are some practical tips:
Keep open communication
Talk regularly with your helper about her family, health, and feelings about work. Let her know she is respected and trusted.Give proper rest and holidays
Rest is essential for mental well-being. Allowing enough rest helps reduce stress and improves work stability and performance.Watch for changes in behavior
If your helper becomes unusually quiet, anxious, or starts borrowing money frequently, try to understand her situation early. She may be facing financial or emotional problems.Encourage professional help
Suggest your helper reach out to her consulate, NGOs, or support groups for counselling or advice.Contact the employment agency
Agencies often have experience handling common helper issues and may give useful advice or assistance.Accompany her to see a doctor if needed
If you suspect your helper has mental health concerns, go with her to a clinic for professional guidance. Early support can prevent serious outcomes.
Why Domestic Helper Insurance Is Important
Under Hong Kong’s Standard Employment Contract, employers must cover most of their foreign domestic helper’s medical costs while working in Hong Kong, including illness and work-related conditions.
In addition to the required employee compensation insurance, it is wise to purchase a domestic helper insurance plan for better protection.
These insurance plans usually include:
Employer’s liability coverage under the Employees’ Compensation Ordinance
Hospitalization and surgical expenses
Clinical and dental care, plus repatriation costs
Personal accident and third-party liability coverage
Having domestic helper insurance is not just about following the law, it is also responsible financial protection. Medical or emergency expenses can be high, and insurance helps reduce the financial burden while giving peace of mind to both employer and helper.
Conclusion
Foreign domestic helpers play a vital role in many Hong Kong households. They leave their homes and families to care for ours. A little care, understanding, and protection from employers can make a big difference in their mental well-being. By building trust, showing respect, and providing proper insurance protection, employers not only help their helpers but also protect their own families. Creating a safe, stable, and supportive environment is the best way to ensure everyone’s well-being.
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The information provided in this article is for general reference only and should not be considered as any form of advice. Our company assumes no responsibility for its use
