Bangkok, Thailand – Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has underscored the urgent need for enhanced collaboration and strategic action to address the growing mental health crisis in the capital.
Chairing the inaugural meeting of the Bangkok Mental Health Subcommittee, Chadchart highlighted key concerns, including children’s mental health, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), stress, and substance abuse. He stressed that these challenges extend beyond younger demographics, impacting the elderly population as well.
The subcommittee, comprising representatives from the media, healthcare professionals, the public, and key ministries such as the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), aims to streamline service delivery and implement more effective mental health policies.
“The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) must introduce concrete projects and action plans to produce measurable results,” Chadchart stated. He emphasized that clear objectives and indicators are essential to ensure meaningful benefits for residents.
Acknowledging past setbacks in addressing mental health concerns, Chadchart expressed confidence that a dedicated and integrated approach would yield better outcomes. He cited drug addiction as an example, explaining that tackling the issue requires cooperation across multiple agencies, including the Health Department, Medical Service Department, Education Department, and City Law Enforcement.
“An integrated strategy is key,” he said. “This includes school-based education, student counseling, and accessible mental health services at local health centers.”
The meeting brought together senior officials, including the Director-General of the Department of Mental Health from the Ministry of Public Health, subcommittee members, executives from the Health Department, and representatives from the Somdet Chaopraya Institute of Psychiatry.
Held at the Nit–Thanomrudee Saeng-Uthai Dr. Asa–Khunying Songsaeng Meksawan Meeting Room on the 11th floor of the Chao Fah Maha Chakri-Sirindhorn Building in Khlong San district, the session marked a critical step in fostering multi-sectoral cooperation to improve mental health services in Bangkok.
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