On January 5, 2024, during a House of Representatives debate on the draft Budget Expenditure Act, Move Forward MP Sirilapas Kongtrakarn openly discussed psychiatric issues, revealing her personal struggle with depression.
“I want to convey to individuals facing depression and other mental disorders that you are not alone,” Sirilapas said during an interview with Thai PBS World, adding “There are others fighting against the illness and there is someone advocating for you.”
She overcame her fear of disclosing her depression after her first visit to a psychiatrist. “I am courageous enough to embrace my imperfections,” she said.
Her depression began with insomnia, impacting her work. After a year of medication and improvement, she believed she had recovered, but stopping the medication led to a worsening of the symptoms, prompting her to resume treatment.
The doctor diagnosed a genetic predisposition to depression, inherited from her mother. Prescribed numerous medications, she experienced constant drowsiness. Despite recovering from alcoholism, the depression persisted, leading to attempts at self harm.
“I am not fully recovered, but it is more stable. It’s being maintained. I consult the doctor when work pressure increases and I am evaluated monthly for medicine dosage reduction,” she explained.
Running for election gave her a clearer purpose in life. “I had lived for myself. It’s time to live for others,” she said.
Regarding perceptions of mental illness, she emphasised that, while no different from other illnesses, mental health requires more time, understanding and care. Just as one exercises to boost the immune system when suffering a cold, mental health also demands treatment beyond medication.
Asked about her inspiration for advocating for persons with mental illnesses, she expressed a desire to highlight issues to the government, which is responsible for all Thai people’s well-being, adding “I want psychiatric issues to be considered as important.”
She noted that the government’s focus is currently on promoting childbirth, but urged that attention be given to the existing population’s well-being as well.
Sirilapas has never used public psychiatric treatment services, but she understands the burdens faced by her mother and other Thai people who use the services.
At the hospital, the queues are so long. After being prescribed medication, one never knows whether it will have side effects. If so, you have to tolerate it until three months pass and one can tell the doctor that the medication does not suit you. Otherwise, you just have to stop taking the medicine, she explained.
Asked about potential resolutions to the issues raised in parliament, she acknowledged seeing positive signs, including from the Mental Health Department and Public Health Minister, saying that she will monitor their progress.
In addition to prioritising psychiatric issues, she stressed the need for education about and understanding of those with mental illnesses, which requires collaboration, especially from the media.
“First, we must change the perception that Srithanya is a Hospital for crazy people,” she emphasised.
Calling for spokespersons, especially those with personal experience, she envisioned creating communities that share personal journeys, fostering understanding and support.
Despite gaining understanding and gratitude from some quarters, she acknowledged that changing the mindset of certain groups might take some time.
By Neeranuch Kunakorn
