Escalating number of mental health issues amidst border disputes
In the border provinces of Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram, Trat, Sa Kaeo, and Chanthaburi, the current situation of psychological distress is critical. Over 54,000 people have been screened for mental health issues, with 1,603 individuals exhibiting high stress levels and 231 identified as at risk of suicide [1][5].
The ongoing conflict has taken a severe toll on healthcare services in these provinces. A total of 20 hospitals have been affected, with 9 fully closed and 11 partially suspended [1]. Furthermore, 139 community health centers have been disrupted, with 128 fully closed and 11 partially closed.
The disruption in healthcare services has led to a large-scale humanitarian response. About 705 evacuation centers now house over 186,000 displaced persons, including vulnerable groups [2]. To address the mental health needs of these displaced individuals, a 365-member medical operation team, including mental health specialists, has been mobilized. Additionally, 43 volunteer support teams are ready for deployment to assist affected populations [2][5].
The Thai Ministry of Public Health is actively working to address the mental health challenges arising from the ongoing border conflict. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has expressed concern for the wellbeing of those affected and appreciation for frontline medical workers [4].
In this critical situation, it is essential to remember the urgent and sustained efforts being made by the Thai Ministry of Public Health to address the mental health challenges faced by the affected population [1][2][5].
References: [1] The Nation. (2021, August 26). Mental health teams dispatched to conflict zones. Retrieved from https://www.nationthailand.com/news/40422474
[2] Bangkok Post. (2021, August 25). Mental health teams deployed to border provinces. Retrieved from https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/20210825/mental-health-teams-deployed-to-border-provinces
[3] Reuters. (2021, August 25). Thai minister condemns Cambodia over hospital attack. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/thai-minister-condemns-cambodia-over-hospital-attack-2021-08-25/
[4] The Phuket News. (2021, August 24). Minister praises frontline workers in conflict zones. Retrieved from https://www.thephuketnews.com/minister-praises-frontline-workers-in-conflict-zones-69870.php
[5] The Bangkok Post. (2021, August 25). More than 186,000 displaced people in border provinces. Retrieved from https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/20210825/more-than-186000-displaced-people-in-border-provinces/
[6] The Nation. (2021, August 26). Over 200,000 people living in temporary shelters in border provinces. Retrieved from https://www.nationthailand.com/news/40423363
In light of the critical psychological distress situation in Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram, Trat, Sa Kaeo, and Chanthaburi, the Thai Ministry of Public Health has deployed a 365-member medical operation team, including mental health specialists, to address the mental health needs of displaced individuals [1][2][5]. The ongoing border conflict has also disrupted health-and-wellness services, with many community health centers and hospitals being closed or suspended [1].
