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The Bangkok Mental Health Hospital (BMHH) has brought to light a concerning reality in Thailand at present: an estimated 10 million individuals are contending with mental health challenges, yet only 2 million have sought professional assistance.

Dr. Paweena Srimanothip, CEO of BMHH, highlighted the escalating demand for specialized mental health care facilities, attributing the scarcity of such establishments to a shortage of proficient professionals, resulting in predominantly government-owned facilities and limited competition.

Despite the increasing need for mental health services, particularly for conditions like depression, there remains a dearth of providers. BMHH's upcoming strategic plan for the next six months is geared towards solidifying its position as a premier mental health institution and introducing a dedicated child mental health department by early next year, with an allocated budget of up to 3 million baht. This initiative aims to address the burgeoning youth mental health crisis.

Dr. Paweena disclosed alarming statistics regarding mental health cases in Thailand, surpassing global averages and underscoring a significant societal challenge. Statistics from the Department of Mental Health noted the gravity of the issue, indicating that in 2023, 4.5% of Thais experienced significant stress, 5.8% were susceptible to depression, and 3.2% contemplated suicide. These numbers escalated further in 2024, with 15.5% reporting elevated stress levels, 17.2% facing a risk of depression, and 10.6% considering suicide, The Nation reported.

Per data gathered by the BMHH, the five most common mental health disorders in Thailand include:

1. Depression: Particularly prominent among individuals aged 20-40, a pivotal life stage marked by self-establishment and family responsibilities.

2. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): Characterized by unfounded fear, excessive worry, and anxiety devoid of identifiable triggers.

3. Stress: Resulting from heightened pressure and tension in daily life.

4. Panic disorder: Exhibiting symptoms akin to GAD but with increased severity.

5. Bipolar disorder: Marked by erratic mood swings, alternating between depressive and manic episodes.

Dr. Paweena emphasized the crucial role of the hospital environment in supporting emotionally vulnerable patients, highlighting BMHH's efforts to ensure a safe and comforting atmosphere while maintaining stringent safety measures.

Dr. Paweena noted a positive shift in Thai society's perception of mental health saying, "Thai society has become more open, and people's perceptions of mental health hospitals have changed. People now understand that seeking therapy is one way of navigating life's challenges. The approach towards providing mental health care is very different from attending to physical health issues because emotions and feelings are heavily involved.'