Bangkok, Thailand – July 30, 2024 – The 23rd Annual International Mental Health Conference, organized by the Department of Mental Health Thailand, commenced in Bangkok. The event gathered a global community of mental health experts, academics, and professionals to discuss innovative strategies for enhancing mental health services and infrastructure under the theme "The New S-Curve of Mental Health." This theme emphasized the modernization of knowledge, exchanging ideas, and international cooperation.
Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health Thailand, officially opened the ceremony, underscoring the crucial role of mental health in societal well-being and the government’s commitment to advancing mental health services. He highlighted initiatives targeting drug-related mental health issues, including a mental health fund and the new Mental Health Act. Plans for integrated care units and leveraging digital technology for mental health services were also discussed to improve overall health and well-being in Thailand.
Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health Thailand, delivers a keynote speech at the 23rd Annual International Mental Health Conference in Bangkok. © WHO Thailand 2024
At this significant event, Ms. Saima Wazed, the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for South-East Asia (SEARO), delivered a special lecture titled "Strategic Framework of Mental Health Towards a Healthier Population." She emphasized the importance of regional collaboration, community-based support, and integrated services in improving mental health. "By working together and focusing on the interconnection between physical and mental health, we can advocate for holistic approaches that integrate mental health services into broader public health strategies. Our vision is to create a society where mental health is prioritized, and every individual has access to the care they need, and free from stigma and discrimination," Ms. Wazed stated.
Ms. Saima Wazed, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, delivers a special lecture on "Strategic Framework of Mental Health Toward a Healthier Population". © WHO Thailand 2024
Ms. Saima Wazed's special lecture at the conference offered a comprehensive vision for improving mental health across South-East Asia. She began by emphasizing that mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall health and well-being, extending far beyond the mere absence of mental disorders. Ms. Wazed also stressed that mental health is a universal human right and crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She explained how progress in mental health supports and is reinforced by advancements in other SDGs, highlighting the interconnected nature of these global objectives. Additionally, she praised Thailand's International Workforce Training Program and proposed establishing a regional mental health learning hub in Thailand to provide evidence-based services, foster research, and raise awareness.
In the second part of her presentation, Ms. Wazed advocated for greater investment in community-based and primary care level mental health services rather than focusing on psychiatric hospitals. She emphasized the need for responsive mental health systems, effective prevention programs, and addressing key determinants such as substance use and mental health in workplaces and schools. By shifting the focus to community and primary care, she argued, more accessible and effective mental health services can be created to cater to the broader population. Ms. Wazed discussed translating the Paro Declaration into actionable steps. She highlighted the ongoing collaboration between WHO and the Ministry of Public Health, Thailand, as an example of a successful partnership and commitment to improving mental health outcomes.
International attendees, WHO Regional Director Saima Wazed, and Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health Thailand, stand for a group photo at the 23rd Annual International Mental Health Conference in Bangkok. © WHO Thailand 2024
Adding to the international perspective, Dasho Denchen Wangmo, Head of the PEMA and former Minister of Health, Bhutan, delivered a lecture on "Mental health in emergency, a Necessity." She shared Bhutan’s experiences in managing mental health during crises, highlighting the importance of preparedness and robust mental health systems. "In times of crisis, mental health support is not a luxury, but a necessity," she emphasized.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of the Mental Health Award to WHO Regional Advisor, Dr. Andrea Bruni. He was recognized for his exceptional contributions to the collective work of WHO in technically supporting Member States, including Thailand. This award underscores WHO’s commitment and role as Secretariat in advancing mental health and well-being, both globally and in the South-East Asia region.
Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health Thailand, presents the Mental Health Award to Dr. Andrea Bruni, WHO SEARO Mental Health Advisor, at the 23rd Annual International Mental Health Conference in Bangkok. © WHO Thailand 2024
As the conference continued, participants engaged in discussions, workshops, and presentations aimed at expanding mental health knowledge and cross-learning across countries. The Department of Mental Health, Thailand is committed to leading the way in fostering cooperation and sharing cutting-edge research on a global scale to build a future where every individual has access to mental health care, everywhere and closest to where they live.