Life in ThailandThai ways of living - be it countryside or city - have their own distinct styles, rhythms and habits. The kingdom, and especially Bangkok, is also home to an interesting variety of locals and expatriates. Learn about the views and lives of local and expatriate communities, in addition to helpful tips for those exploring and living a Life in Thailand.
While modern life would appear to become increasingly developed through the advances provided by modern technology, it would seem that when it comes to our mental health, the same old challenges remain.
Recent negative developments, such as the economic downturn, an increasing number of natural disasters, as well as the emergence of the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic, serve to highlight this situation.
Thai people have recently had to face the added stress of a high level of political uncertainty and the number of calls received by the Department of Mental Health from members of the public has been increasing since the start of the year.
But according to Dr Yongyud Wongpiromsarn, head of the department's advisory group, there are quite a few ways that individuals can use to battle the stress these situations can cause.
The department has a policy of helping to better educate people to deal with their problems, while supporting other sectors of the government on matters relating to mental health.
I recently met with Dr Yongyud, who kindly shared his opinions on such matters.
Maneeya Dhammataree (MD):Could you tell me about the current situation with regard to depression among the country's population?
Yongyud Wongpiromsarn (YW): In terms of trends, the suicide rate increased in 1997 following the Asian economic and financial crisis and remain high for another two years. From 2000 through until 2008, the rate gradually decreased. But this year, we are starting to see it rise again.
MD:How can the your department help with people facing a critical situation?
YW: We have an automatic hotline (1667), which provides basic solutions to certain 'every day' issues, such as those of a sexual nature, or pertaining to the family. It also offers the option of providing one-to-one counseling for persons seeking more specific advice from a professional counselor. The department also emphasizes providing a system of services at a local level by establishing special mental health sections at 17 hospitals across the country.
MD:Are there any particular activities aimed at helping people prepare for an unexpected crisis?
YW:
Certainly. We have a project called Resilience, for example. This
encourages people to remain optimistic so that they can be mentally
strong enough should any problem emerge.
MD:How does this project educate members of the public?
YW:
We organize exhibitions and activities in general hospitals and
district hospitals, encouraging people to develop three important
aspects of their personality essential for a healthy outlook, namely
endurance, determination, and potential. Endurance refers to
the ability to control your emotion and stay conscious when problems
occur. Determination refers to the will required to face a problem. The
key tool is encouragement. People should realize that it's not wrong to
seek encouragement from family members or friends, or by 'self talk'
(self reflection). Potential refers to the ability to solve a problem
using a step-by-step process.
MD:How about an online networks – do they provide any benefits in terms of supporting your projects?
YW:
We have an e-questionnaire that allows members of the public to assess
their situation and needs, as well as an e-learning program that
provides updates on the latest studies for public health officials.
MD:Can the department help people when it comes to the issue of Influenza A (H1N1)?
YW:
No, not directly. We provide advice to the government about the way in
which they provide the public with news relating to H1N1 and how they
need to respond to any subsequent public reaction.
MD:Could you offer our readers any advice when trying to deal with psychological problems?
YW:
Sure. Problems are a normal aspect of every day existence. Thinking
positively, problems can actually help us to become stronger.
Encouragement and support from family members can help you to overcome
such challenges. When everyone sticks together in the community, it
will have sufficient 'immunity' to fight back in the future when
another problem arises.
Life in Thailand 
Life in Thailand
Thai ways of living - be it countryside or city - have their own distinct styles, rhythms and habits. The kingdom, and especially Bangkok, is also home to an interesting variety of locals and expatriates. Learn about the views and lives of local and expatriate communities, in addition to helpful tips for those exploring and living a Life in Thailand.
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