EFFECTIVENESS OF USING MENTAL HEALTH CHECK IN & E-MAIL ALERT PROGRAM UNDER MENTAL HEALTH ADMINISTRATION BY THE MAHA SARAKHAM PROVINCAIL MENTAL HEALTH SUBCOMMITTEE (MENTAL HEALTH ACT ENFORCEMENT COORDINATION SUBCOMMITTEE), 2021-2024

Abstract

This research and development study aimed to analyze the situation, compare interventions, evaluate outcomes, assess impacts, and expand the implementation of the Mental Health Check-in & E-mail Alert Program under the administration of the mental health service system by the Mental Health Subcommittee. Using the following statistical methods: Pearson Chi-Square, Spearman Rank Correlation, Fisher’s Exact Test, Odds Ratio (OR), Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test, and Mann–Whitney U Test.

The results indicated that economic conditions and chronic disease contributed to a decrease in overall mental health problems; however, severe mental disorders and substance abuse–related mental health issues remained critical concerns. Individuals with severe mental disorders and those using addictive substances exhibited significantly reduced psychological well-being, with levels of stress 6.504 times higher, anxiety 15.909 times higher, depression 55.652 times higher, and suicide risk 52.196 times higher. After implementing the program in conjunction with the CHAR-FIG assessment tool, the experimental group demonstrated statistically significant differences compared to the control group (p-value < 0.05). The experimental group showed higher levels of psychological well-being with Z = -6.444, lower stress levels with Z = -6.390, lower depression levels with Z = -6.943, and lower suicide risk with Z = -7.651. Subsequently, the program was expanded and integrated with district-level public health offices, mental health service facilities, and the “TO BE NUMBER ONE–YC-HERO” initiative, covering the entire province.

The study recommends comprehensive mental health care for all ages and addressing economic and substance abuse issues to improve health-related quality of life (HQOL).