A recent devastating apartment complex fire in Tai Po, resulting in at least 156 fatalities and leaving approximately 30 individuals unaccounted for, prompted an urgent community response, including a special television broadcast focused on grief and recovery. On Tuesday night, a TVB Plus program titled Heartfelt Connection: Live Spiritual Contact aired, offering condolences to the victims’ families, expressing gratitude to rescue teams, and providing psychological first aid to the public. Hosted by Eric Li, Nicole Wong, and Wong Yiu-ying, the broadcast opened with a moment of silence for those who perished in the tragedy.
The segment featured insights from experts, including spiritual mentor In Lee and registered clinical psychologist Ernest Wong, to help the audience navigate the collective trauma and personal grief. The hosts shared their immediate emotional reactions and reported on the impressive outpouring of local support witnessed near the disaster site.
Community Resilience and Immediate Reactions
Host Nicole Wong recounted her inability to sleep the night of the incident due to emotional turmoil, which led her to volunteer at the scene. She detailed the immediate, overwhelming compassion displayed by the public. “Hong Kong people genuinely showed immense love,” Wong said, noting that by lunchtime, thousands of meal boxes had accumulated at the site, reflecting concerns that survivors and displaced residents might go hungry.
Wong Yiu-ying, reporting directly from the site in the immediate aftermath, highlighted the selflessness of many foreign domestic workers who sacrificed their days off to deliver supplies and assistance, calling the scene profoundly emotional. The quick mobilization of resources underscores the strong community bonds during crisis periods.
Understanding Acute Trauma and Recovery
Registered clinical psychologist Ernest Wong addressed the normality of acute stress reactions following a disaster that threatens life and security, specifically mentioning the loss of homes and loved ones. Symptoms like insomnia and loss of appetite are to be expected initially.
“These are normal, initial reactions,” Wong stated. He cautioned, however, that monitoring symptoms in the weeks following the event is critical. “We need to observe whether symptoms intensify after one or two weeks. Approximately 20 to 30 percent of people may experience more severe symptoms, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Therefore, observation during this period and subsequent aid are even more important.” Professional intervention may be necessary if severe reactions persist or worsen.
Allowing Space for Grief and Healing
Spiritual mentor In Lee emphasized the danger of suppressing extreme emotions in the face of such a profound tragedy. Many people find themselves on the verge of emotional collapse yet feel compelled to maintain a facade of strength and are often afraid to cry publicly.
“The continuation of this suppressed emotion is what is most concerning,” Lee explained. “They find it very difficult to express their feelings; they don’t dare to break down and cry in public.” Lee strongly advocated for allowing oneself the space to grieve privately. “I suggest that people give themselves a small space to cry. Cry in private; it doesn’t matter how dramatic or exaggerated the tears are.” She stressed that self-expression, even privately, is crucial, contrasting it with pretending to be strong.
Lee also highlighted that simple, silent support—a hug or just being present—can be sufficient comfort. She urged people not to isolate themselves and to share their struggles with trusted friends or professionals to resolve difficulties and prevent negative emotions from festering. Overcoming collective sorrow requires acknowledging emotional pain and seeking supportive connections.
