Q&A: The Mental Health of Bangkok Residents Today

Q&A: The Mental Health of Bangkok Residents Today

Dr. Veerawuth Ekkamolkul, Psychiatrist at Vibhavadi Hospital

Question 1: What are the causes of stress for us? What is the most stressful issue?

Answer: Based on research on Thai people's stress, it was found that the number one cause of stress in Thailand is economic problems, consistently ranking first. Political issues come in second, even though they have never been among the top five in the past. They overshadow family problems, work-related issues, relationship issues, and friendship problems. After the termination of the protests in May 2010, it is uncertain whether political issues will become the number one cause of stress or not, as there is currently no research report on this matter.

Question 2: When we are stressed, what symptoms can occur?

Answer: There are three possible sets of symptoms that can occur individually or in combination:

• Physical symptoms can range from muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and back, shallow and uncomfortable breathing, fatigue, loss of appetite, to various physical conditions such as migraines, stress-related gastritis, allergies, irritable bowel syndrome, high blood pressure, and severe stress can even cause strokes, especially in the elderly who already have hardened blood vessels.
• Psychological and emotional symptoms can start with mild symptoms such as insomnia, tension, irritability, depression, and can escalate to mental disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, and psychiatric conditions.
• Cognitive and behavioral symptoms include increased negative thinking, leading to behavioral problems such as alcohol or substance abuse, antisocial behavior, and self-destructive behavior.

Question 3: How does the current situation in the country affect the mental health of Bangkok residents?

Answer: Stress levels have increased. In the case of individuals with low levels of stress, it can be considered beneficial for political awareness among the general public. However, individuals who already have high levels of accumulated stress tend to experience an even higher level of stress when faced with a political crisis, exceeding their tolerance level and resulting in physical illness due to stress. Many individuals have received treatment to alleviate their stress, but when there is a political crisis, their previous symptoms resurface, necessitating additional treatment. The last group includes individuals who have experienced disasters, such as those who participated in protests, communities in affected areas, and those who have suffered injuries or lost loved ones or property.

Question 4: How can one receive news without feeling stressed?

Answer:  It is important to keep an open mind and strive to listen to information from various sources, both domestic and international, as modern technology allows access even when blocked. Avoid rushing to conclusions based on received information and try to understand those who think differently from us.

Tailor the news intake to suit oneself. If it is noticed that there is an excessive emotional response to certain news, it is advisable to avoid it and engage in other activities instead. This could include listening to music, gardening, cooking, or exercising. In cases where spending too much time consuming news leads to stress, it is recommended to limit the time spent and engage in other activities in life to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

In situations where easily stressed but necessary to stay informed, it is important to practice stress relief techniques such as deep breathing or meditation exercises, which help calm the mind and provide a sense of relaxation.

Question 5: How to manage differing opinions within the same household to avoid conflicts?

Answer: It is not about adopting a winning mentality in terms of ideas, but rather understanding that our reasoning may be correct from our perspective alone. Engage in conversations with the intention of helping the other person feel more relaxed, with a compassionate and empathetic approach. In cases where abilities are exceeded or the other person is not receptive, it is better not to hold anger but maintain a sense of understanding. Research conducted in the United States has found that in times of intense political polarization, individuals highly invested in political parties, regardless of the party itself, tend to have their emotional brain working more than their rational brain. The creative thinking part, which is a larger part of the brain, is thus subdued by emotions. Therefore, it is possible to listen to differing opinions by understanding this difference.

Question 6: How should people in Bangkok conduct themselves in society at this time?

Answer: It is advisable to remain moderate or reduce intensity, such as avoiding strong emotions like intense anger or intense excitement. This allows the rational part of the brain to function better and reduces emotional responses. Utilize religious principles to calm the mind and enable better performance in one's duties.

Question 7: What advice would you give to the people of Bangkok in these times?

Answer: Make an effort to maintain normalcy using the aforementioned methods.

Strive to understand those who think differently from you.

Provide basic support for individuals stressed about politics, starting with empathetic listening, followed by expressing appreciation for their political awakening. In cases of political stress, encourage them to reduce intensity, whether it be intense anger or excitement, in order to regain a sense of normal happiness. Avoid engaging in conflicts to win over differing opinions, as it can damage good relationships.