PATTAYA, Thailand – The Department of Mental Health has advised the public to care for their emotional well-being during this period of national grief following the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha. Department Director-General Dr. Kittisak Aksornwong said the passing of Her Royal Highness is a significant loss that has brought sorrow to the Thai people. He noted that ongoing feelings of loss may cause some people to become more emotionally sensitive or experience accumulated grief. This can lead to mass grief, or collective grief, where many people feel sadness and loss simultaneously. Such emotional responses are natural and do not necessarily indicate a mental health disorder. The department is closely monitoring potential mental health impacts and preparing support services to ensure that people can access timely and appropriate care in situations that affect the public.
Deputy Director-General Dr. Chumphot Phromsida said people may experience emotional or physical responses such as sadness, confusion, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, fatigue, increased news consumption, social withdrawal, or a stronger desire to join mourning activities. These reactions are common during grief and often improve with proper care and adjustment.
The department advised the public to rest well, eat properly, maintain physical health, follow information from reliable sources, and avoid repeated exposure to distressing content. People are encouraged to express their feelings appropriately by speaking with trusted individuals or participating in remembrance activities. Special attention should be given to children, older persons, people with existing mental health concerns, and those who have experienced previous loss. Anyone feeling overwhelmed may contact the Mental Health Hotline at 1323, available 24 hours a day. (NNT)
