CU Medicine study on preventing mental disorders in adolescents received over HK$67 million funding from RGC
The mental health of adolescents urgently requires attention. Led by Professor Wing Yun-kwok, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)'s Faculty of Medicine (CU Medicine), the project titled " Sleep and Circadian Rhythm: Potential Window for Prevention of Mental Disorders in Adolescents" aims to explore the impact of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances on adolescent mental health and to develop personalised prevention programmes. This project has been awarded over HK$ 67 million in funding under the Research Grants Council's (RGC) latest 2025/26 Theme-based Research Scheme.
Professor Wing Yun-kwok
The purpose of the Theme-based Research Scheme is to focus academic research efforts of UGC-funded universities on themes of strategic importance to the long-term development of Hong Kong.
According to data, 75% of mental health problems begin before the age of 24. Local statistics show that 5.4% and 6.1% of adolescents suffer from depression and anxiety respectively, but many patients remain undiagnosed. Most existing prevention programmes adopt a "one-size-fits-all" model that cannot meet the unique circumstances and needs of individuals, resulting in limited effectiveness. Moreover, adolescents have a low rate of seeking help, creating an urgent need for innovative methods to improve the current situation.
Professor Wing’s study is divided into two phases. The first phase utilises artificial intelligence and wearable technology to analyse sleep and circadian rhythm data, building a precise model that predicts depression and anxiety. The second phase implements personalised intervention models to prevent mental illness by addressing sleep problems, while evaluating biomarker changes and assessing cost-effectiveness. This research emphasises that sleep disturbances are a significant predictor of mood problems, with sleep issues increasing the risk of mood disorders by 2 to 3 times.
The study could have great potential to revolutionise mental health prevention strategies, offering critical insights for future healthcare policies and implementation. By prioritising sleep and circadian rhythms during this vital developmental stage of adolescents, the study aims to create a personalised AI-driven approach that will have the potential to fundamentally transform the delivery and management of mental health care and preventive medicine.
The first phase of the study utilises artificial intelligence and wearable technology to analyse sleep and circadian rhythm data, building a precise model that predicts depression and anxiety.
The second phase of the study implements personalised intervention models to prevent mental illness by addressing sleep problems, while evaluating biomarker changes and assessing cost-effectiveness.
