EXPLORING HOW BUDDHIST NETWORKS ENCOURAGE MENTAL HEALTH CARE: PATHWAYS TO BUILDING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES IN URBAN THAILAND

Abstract

Background and Objective: The challenges of mental health problems in Thailand require collaboration from various social institutions. However, studies examining the role of Buddhist institutions in addressing mental health problems through participatory approaches remain limited. Moreover, previous studies linking social networks with mental health issues have suggested potential pathways for ensuring comprehensive healthcare at multiple levels. This article aimed to examine the relationship between social networks and mental health care, focusing on the role of Buddhist institutions as initiators of community-based support networks.

Methodology: Drawing on action research, this study examined the relationship between social networks and mental health care across four provinces: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, and Phuket. Data were collected through focus groups, workshops, and lessons-learned reviews that reflected the stages of action research. Content analysis was subsequently employed to analyze the data and synthesize the findings. Action research was adopted because it facilitates purposeful social change and aligns with the objectives of this study.

Main Results: Action research conducted across the four sites led to the development of supportive social networks for mental and cognitive well-being grounded in Buddhist principles, with each initiative shaped by its local context. In Bangkok, a model was developed that integrated Buddhist teachings with artistic processes and counseling activities led by monks and youth volunteers from Satri Si Suriyothai School. The initiative enhanced youth attitudes toward Buddhism, strengthened civic-mindedness, and resulted in the establishment of a collaborative network recognized by city policymakers. In Chiang Mai, social innovation emerged through the "Jarigano" coffee brand, a collaborative initiative between Dhamma-jārika monks and local youth.  The project generated employment and income for community members while contributing to psychological stability. Profits were reinvested to support Buddhist outreach and community-based activities. In Khon Kaen, a Buddhist university collaborated with public health agencies and Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) to support older adults. The initiative reduced stress and anxiety among elderly participants, strengthened social cohesion, and contributed to the establishment of a community health learning center. In Phuket, cross-sector collaboration among the sangha, public health authorities, and the police created a protective mental health framework for youth.  Young participants developed greater awareness of drug-related and legal risks while also practicing mindfulness to enhance self-regulation and emotional resilience.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This article is situated within the field of Applied Buddhism, examining how Buddhist principles are translated into social action through the framework of the    Four Sangahavatthu. It also highlights the role of Buddhism in fostering the development of wisdom and morality, which underpin the ethical orientation of these practices. Dāna is reflected in the creation of networks that enable community participation and the sharing of emotional support. Piyavācā is expressed through persuasive and unifying communication that encourages community engagement. Atthacariyā is embodied in concrete activities carried out for the collective good, helping alleviate psychological distress and strengthen communal well-being. Finally, Samānattatā is demonstrated through sustained collaboration among multiple sectors in supporting the mental health of community members.

Conclusions: The study demonstrates that religious leadership and the monastic community play a significant role in strengthening social capital and fostering meaningful collaboration among diverse network partners. The application of Buddhist principles through practical activities not only supports emotional and cognitive healing but also contributes to structural transformations, including influencing public policy and developing socially oriented business models. These findings suggest that religious networks can serve as effective and sustainable actors in addressing community mental health challenges.