Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), represented by the Office of Educational Services, has partnered with the Department of Mental Health to organize a workshop focused on basic mental health knowledge for counselors and personnel involved in student educational support services. The training took place at STOU Headquarters in Nonthaburi and was presided over by Asst. Prof. Dr. Kajornsak Sitthi, Director of the Office of Educational Services.
This workshop is a direct result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between STOU and the Department of Mental Health. The MOU’s primary objective is to drive and integrate mental health care and support for both students and staff, ensuring they receive systematic promotion, development, prevention, and resolution of mental health issues.
The training greatly benefited from the support of Mental Health Center 4, Pathum Thani, which provided a team of mental health experts. The team was led by Mr. Worapot Panapawuttikul, an experienced clinical psychologist, who delivered crucial knowledge and practical guidelines. The center also provided partial financial support for the event.
The key objective of the workshop was to equip participants with foundational knowledge of mental health and prepare them to serve as counselors. This includes enabling them to provide initial assistance to students who may be at risk of developing mental health problems. Fifty STOU personnel from both central and regional offices, whose duties involve counseling, attended the training.
This workshop marks a significant step forward in enhancing the quality of life and mental well-being for all involved parties, including both staff and students. It is expected to lead to the establishment of a tangible and sustainable mental health care system in the future.
