This article examines distress as it affects men & women, particularly in relation to suicide & marriage. Although the overall rate of suicide is higher for men than for women, the two rates are much closer in Hong Kong than is the case in Western countries. This suggests that, among other things, marrige provides less protection against suicide for women than is commonly the case elsewhere. The article concludes with evidence showing approximately 60% of people who die by suicide in Hong Kong have consulted a doctor in the previous 14 days, suggesting that professional ability to recognize the variety of ways in which distress is communicated needs to be improved. (26 refs.)