Bangkok: Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHPF) and the Department of Mental Health are pioneering a transformative initiative to enhance mental health across Thailand. By training happiness communicators, the organizations aim to transition mental health initiatives from digital platforms to real-world settings, focusing on the Benyalak Model community as a blueprint for improving mental well-being in border areas.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF) is advancing the 'Cultivating-Awakening Happiness' project in collaboration with Mental Health Center 10 of the Department of Mental Health. The project seeks to develop change leaders and a network of mental health communicators, enhancing mental health literacy for individuals to care for their well-being and that of their families and communities. It utilizes participatory processes and the digital platform 'Home-Power-Heart' for learning and communication. The project connects policy work to practical implementation, with Benyalak District, Sisaket Province serving as a pilot area, demonstrating the practical application of digital concepts and tools through community collaboration.
Dr. Supaporn Srithanyarat, Director of Mental Health Center 10, explained that the 'Developing a Network of Communicators for Happiness' project empowers citizens as Change Agents in mental health within their communities. The initiative extends from digital spaces to practical field implementation, covering five pilot provinces in Health Region 10. Benyalak District integrates the 'Well-being' concept and 'Social Determinants of Mental Health' to build mental health literacy, facilitate community mental care, and enable communication through citizen networks and digital platforms, easing access to mental health information and care.
Mr. Chanchao Chaiyanukit, Chairman of the Mental Health Promotion Steering Committee of ThaiHPF, emphasized the need for a community-based, preventative approach to mental health. He highlighted the importance of empowering individuals, building emotional coping skills, and creating safe spaces for community dialogue. Developing 'Well-being' leaders who connect families, communities, and the healthcare system ensures timely mental health care and support, particularly crucial in vulnerable border areas.
Mr. Chuchai Nitchtairat, Project Manager of the P2H Foundation's "Suk Pen" project, noted that their work in Benyalak District began last September. The success is attributed to collaboration with the Mental Health Center of the Provincial Public Health Office and local partners, coupled with simple, accessible tools and activities that promote self-worth and communal support.
Dr. Pairoj Saonuam, Deputy Manager of ThaiHPF, expressed confidence in the integration of policy, digital, and community power through the "Home-Power-Heart" platform. Driven by well-being leaders in areas like Benyalak District, this model aims to establish a strong, sustainable, and scalable mental health care system nationwide.