An August seminar on psychological adjustment in the post -SARS period aims to help members of the public overcome anxiety and mental health problems related to the outbreak.

Speaking at a press briefing today, the Social Welfare Department's Chief Clinical Psychologist, Helios Lau, said the department will also organise activities on topics including how to deal with disasters, rebuilding the community after disasters and crisis intervention.

Case workers of the department's Family Services Centres are following up on all children who lost parents to the disease, Mr Lau noted, adding that clinical psychologists will give them priority treatment.

The Hospital Authority's clinical psychologists also provide screening for all recovered patients and will offer  treatment if they see the need for clinical intervention.

According to Mr Lau, the department's Clinical Psychological Service Branch is now handling 45 cases involving recovered SARS patients and their family members.

The SARS Emotional Support Hotline operated by the department received 207 telephone calls between April 2 and June 25. Of them, 17 cases have been referred to the department's Clinical Psychology Units for treatment.

Mr Lau reminded the public not to discriminate against SARS-affected people as it will make them feel reluctant to seek help when they have psychological problems.

He advised people who are psychologically affected by SARS to call one of the following hotlines:

* Social Welfare Department's Hotline (2343 2255)

* Hospital Authority's Psychiatric Service Hotline (2466 7350)