Two-thirds (66%) of Hong Kong residents have used AI tools for health-related purposes, while 43% of AI users trust the technology more than mind health professionals, according to the AXA Mind Health Study 2026. Respondents use AI to understand and manage their own wellbeing, support others and communicate mind health concerns. However, growing reliance on the technology raises concerns, with 44% of AI users preferring AI support over face-to-face conversations with friends or peers, 42% almost always following AI recommendations and 40% saying turning to AI has become a reflex. Meanwhile, 26% reported feeling uneasy after receiving AI-generated advice, while the same proportion said AI recommendations had led them to behaviours they later considered harmful.
Digital habits are also affecting wellbeing, with respondents spending an average of 5.5 hours a day on personal screen-based activities outside work. Nine in 10 said excessive screen time negatively affected their daily lives, citing poorer sleep quality (76%), reduced concentration (73%), diminished social interactions (70%), and lower mood and physical activity levels. Workplace pressures remain another concern, with 80% of working respondents reporting multiple factors negatively affecting their mind health. These included uncertainty about the future (59%), work-related stress (56%), financial instability and job insecurity (53%), and difficulties maintaining work-life balance (46%). Additionally, 36% cited excessive social media and digital device use, while 34% reported pressure to keep pace with technological advances, including AI.
The findings also highlight gaps in workplace wellbeing support. While 62% of working respondents said they would not discuss their mind health challenges at work, only 35% said their employers currently offered mind health or wellbeing initiatives. However, 77% expressed interest in participating in such programmes if available. AXA Hong Kong and Macau Chief Employee Benefits and Wellness Officer Emily Li said the findings highlight an opportunity for employers to take a more proactive and personalised approach to employee wellbeing. She added that AXA uses technology-enabled solutions, including its Mind Health Self-check and AI-powered health assessment tools, to help employers understand employees' needs and develop tailored wellbeing strategies.