Journal of the Psychiatric Association of Thailand

Prevalence and Associated Factors to Depression of Junior High School Students in Borabue District, Mahasarakham Province

Tanachai Rinthaisong — 2025-03-19

Objective: To study the prevalence of depression, related factors, and predictors of depression in Grade 4 students, Borabue District, Mahasarakham Province.

Methods: This research is descriptive study (cross-sectional analytic study) using the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHO-A), a self-report consisting of 9 questions with a satisfactory level of internal consistency accuracy (Cronbach's alpha coefficient = 0.88). The sample size was determined to be 220 students using cluster sampling among the group of male and female students aged 15 – 18 years and older who studied at the 4^th grade level in the 2024 academic year of 7 secondary schools in the district of Boroe District, Mahasarakham Province. The sample size was determined according to the population of each school. Simple random sampling was carried out by random drawing in accordance with the number of sample sizes. The data were collected manually, and the data were analyzed using basic statistics such as percentage, mean, and standard deviation and Inferential statistics include Pearson Product - moment correlation coefficient, Multiple Regression Analysis

Results: The prevalence of depression among Grade 4 students in Borabue District, Mahasarakham Province was 15.45 percent, and personal factors affecting the level of depression were gender (r = 0.224), body preference (r = -0.439), Family income (r = - 0.226), Substance use (r = -1.460) were statistically significant at the level of 0.01 physical assault factors were loss of valuable things in life (r = -0.303), major events affecting life (r = -0.277) ,sexual harassment (r = -0.233), physical assault (r = -0.288), suicide attempts (r = -0.223), self-harm thoughts (r = -0.404) were significantly associated with depression p < 0.001 and family and social factors, sibling or relative relationships. Parent/Parent relationship. There is a very low correlation with significant depression p < 0.05. Depression predicted 39.60 percent, p < .001 in all psychological variables = -0.427, p < 0.01), followed by body shape satisfaction (ß = -0.340, p < 0.01) and gender (ß = 0.125, p < 0.05), respectively. The equation for predicting depression in the form of a standard score is Z (depression) =0.427 (psychological factors) -0.340 (body satisfaction) +0.125 (gender).

Conclusion: Prevalence of depression among Grade 4 students in Borabue District, Mahasarakham Province It shows the magnitude of depression problems and adolescent suicidality in high school contexts. and found factors related to the level of depression, including personal factors. Mental health screening systems in schools should be given serious attention to provide urgent care and referral to public health facilities in nearby areas.

The Mediating Role of Resilience and Self-Esteem in Depression and Anxiety Among Bullied Secondary School Students in Thailand

Chuenkamon Purintaworagul — 2025-03-19

Objective: This study examined the relationship between school bullying, depression and anxiety in Thai junior high school students, with resilience and self-esteem as mediators.

Methods: A cross-sectional study surveyed 560 students from secondary schools in Chonburi, Thailand, using Thai-language questionnaires in June 2024. Instruments included the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A), the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED), the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Multidimensional Peer-Victimization Scale (MPVS). Data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation and bootstrapping to examine mediating effects of resilience and self-esteem.

Results: Among 505 participants with a mean age of 13.24 ± 0.95 years, 28.9% exhibited moderate to severe depression, and 54.1% experienced anxiety. School bullying had a direct effect on depression (β = .137, [.098, .176]) and anxiety (β = .429, [.305, .554]), as well as indirect effect on depression (β = .053, [.028, .080]) and anxiety (β = .121, [.062, .189]) mediated by self-esteem. Resilience was not found to be a mediating variable.

Conclusion: School bullying has both direct and indirect effects on depression and anxiety in junior high school students through self-esteem. Therefore, preventing bullying and promoting self-esteem can help prevent long-term mental health issues.

The Prevalence and Associated Factors of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) among Preclinical Medical Students at Chulalongkorn University

Natthaya Chaovalitchaiyakul — 2025-03-19

Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of moderate to severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) among pre-clinical medical student at Chulalongkorn university.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 224 pre-clinical medical students at Chulalongkorn university during September 2024 to October 2024. Participants were asked to complete the self-administered questionnaires consisting of personal and menstrual-related information, Lifestyles information, Premenstrual Symptoms screening tool (PSST) – Thai version and 10-Item Perceived Stress Scale-10 (T-PSS-10) – Thai version. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as Chi-square, Fisher’s exact test, independent t-test and logistic regression analysis.

Results: The study included 224 participants. The prevalence of moderate to severe PMS and PMDD were 36.6% and 4.46%, respectively. According to logistic regression analysis, GPAX (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.33, 95%CI = 0.11 - 0.95, p = 0.039), family history of PMS or PMDD (aOR = 3.16, 95%CI = 1.11 - 9.04, p = 0.032) and a total score of the Perceived Stress Scale, Thai version (T-PSS-10) (aOR = 1.17, 95%CI = 1.08 - 1.27, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with moderate to severe PMS. While class absenteeism (aOR = 22.74, 95%CI = 2.04 - 253.75, p = 0.011), consumption of bakery products (aOR = 0.020, 95%CI = 0.002 - 0.27, p = 0.003) and a total score of T-PSS-10 (aOR = 1.29, 95%CI = 1.05 - 1.58, p = 0.016) were significantly associated with PMDD.

Conclusion: Our study found that approximately one-third of the sample experience PMS and nearly 5% had PMDD. Increased total score on the Perceived Stress Scale were associated with both PMS and PMDD. Therefore, screening and mental health promotion including stress management, should be provided for preclinical medical students.

Results of Treatment with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) on Self-Injurious Behavior and Quality of Life of Patients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Sornsiri Wattanarueangchai — 2025-03-19

Objective: To study the effects of dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) on self-harm behavior and quality of life of patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Methods: Retrospective study (October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2023) in 30 patients with BPD, selected specifically according to inclusion criteria, received 12 sessions of DBT. The data were collected by collecting general data records, in-depth interview data records, self-harm inventory assessments, and quality of life assessments from electronic databases recorded in medical records during patient treatment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-test.

Results: Patients with BPD had decreased self-injurious behavior scores after DBT treatment and increased overall quality of life scores (p = 0.001).

Conclusion: This research study shows the results of DBT treatment, resulting in reduced self-injurious behavior and better quality of life for patients with BPD. Therefore, it can be said that this study is another guideline for the care of patients with self-harm behaviors that can be applied to maximize the benefits of patients in the future.

The Development of Intensive Care Program for Depressed Patients in Reducing Suicidal Risk at Psychiatric OPD, Rayong Hospital

Ornuma Prasongsamret — 2025-03-19

Objective: To study the results of developing an intensive care and monitoring system for depressed patients at risk of suicide to reduce the rate of hospital admissions due to suicide attempts in depressed patients. This includes examining factors associated with suicide attempts, as well as causes and protective factors in patients with depression who are at risk of suicide attempts and receiving treatment at the Psychiatric Department of Rayong Hospital.

Methods: Randomized control trial by systematic sampling. To use Questionnaires 2Q9Q8Q Case record forms at the first and last visit (12 weeks from first visit) and Case record forms for follow up of Intensive Care Program. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics.

Results: A total of 348 depressed patients were at risk of suicide. The study group was followed up via telephone or video call via the LINE application, 172 patients (49.42%) were hospitalized with suicide attempts, 5 patients or 2.91 percent, which was less than the control group of 176 patients (50.58%) who were hospitalized with suicide attempts, 11 patients or 6.25 percent, but no statistical significance was found (p-value = 0.200). From the factor analysis, it was found that the 8Q suicide risk score was only one factor that was significantly associated with suicide attempts. It was found that depressed patients admitted to the hospital with suicide attempts had scores of 33.25 ± 14.67 compared to the control group with scores of 17.23 ± 13.86. When the 8Q score increased by 1 point, the risk increased 1.05 times (aOR = 1.05, 95%CI = 1.02 - 1.09, p-value = 0.003). The most common cause of suicidal thoughts was relationship problems (65.23%), while the most frequently reported protective factor preventing suicidal thoughts was having a commitment, such as to children, parents, or loved ones (57.47%).

Conclusion: The development of an intensive care and monitoring system for depressed patients could not reduce the rate of hospital admissions due to suicide attempts in depressed patients receiving services at the psychiatric department of Rayong Hospital, But it can solve limitations and expand future research. Factors found to be associated with suicide attempts, such as the 8q suicide risk score, along with causes and protective factors, will be used to guide future follow-up care strategies.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Depression among End Stage Kidney Disease Patients in Somdetphraphutthaloetla Hospital

Nipon Nakornnoi — 2025-03-19

Objectives: To study the prevalence of depression in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis and the factors associated with depression in this patient group.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study in 72 end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis at Somdetphraphutthaloetla hospital. Data were collected using two questionnaires: a general information questionnaire and the 9-question depression screening (9Q). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis.

Results: Of the total 72 patients, the majority were female (52.8%) with a mean age of 53.3 years. Their marital status was single (36.1%), married (38.9%), and divorced (15.3%). The highest educational level attained by most patients was primary school (54.2%). Most patients were unemployed (72.2%) and had universal health coverage (62.5%). 65.3% received financial support. The median income of the patients was 0 baht. The median duration of dialysis was 2 years. The median hemodialysis frequency was 2 sessions per week. The average number of medications taken per day was 14.3 pills. The prevalence of depression was 15.3% in this patient group. Lack of financial support was significantly associated with depression (odds ratio = 6.902, 95%CI = 1.635 - 29.135). No significant associations were found between depression and gender, age, marital status, education level, occupation, healthcare coverage, caregiver, family conflicts, underlying diseases, income, dialysis duration, dialysis frequency, and number of medications.

Conclusion: The study found a 15.3% prevalence of depression in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis. Lack of financial support was a significant risk factor for depression.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Self-Esteem, Anxiety, and Depression among Online Dating Application Users in Thailand

Sakjuta Binchai — 2025-03-19

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with self-esteem, anxiety, and depression among users of online dating applications in Thailand.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study. The sample consists of 280 users of online dating applications in Thailand who have had experience using these applications in the past 3 months and are 18 years and older. The study period is from November 1, 2023, to May 31, 2024. An online questionnaire is utilized to collect data on personal factors, characteristics of online dating application usage, as well as to assess mental health issues using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES-TR-10), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale, and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) in its Thai version. Statistical data is analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics including Pearson’s chi-squared test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Multivariable logistic regression.

Results: The prevalence of the sample with low self-esteem was 20.4%, anxiety was 25.7%, and depression was 41.8%. Factors associated with self-esteem included monthly income (Adjusted OR 7.26, 95%CI 1.32 - 39.85), body satisfaction (Adjusted OR 4.81, 95%CI 2.13 - 10.86), social comparison (Adjusted OR 5.36, 95%CI 2.10 - 13.69), and self-reported impact on self-esteem (Adjusted OR 4.45, 95%CI 1.86 - 10.63). Factors associated with anxiety included gender (Adjusted OR 5.56, 95%CI 1.37 - 22.54), monthly income (Adjusted OR 3.71, 95%CI 1.44 - 9.52), body satisfaction (Adjusted OR 4.64, 95%CI 2.29 - 9.42), and social comparison (Adjusted OR 3.92, 95%CI 1.86 - 8.24). Additionally, factors associated with depression included gender (Adjusted OR 3.83, 95%CI 1.03 - 14.28), monthly income (Adjusted OR 3.32, 95%CI 1.17 - 9.40), body satisfaction (Adjusted OR3.39, 95%CI 1.76 - 6.52), and social comparison (Adjusted OR 3.01, 95%CI 1.63 - 5.55).

Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of mental health issues, including low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression among users of online dating applications in Thailand, compared to the prevalence of these issues in the general population. Important associated factors include the absence of gender identification, low monthly income, body dissatisfaction, frequent social comparisons, and self-reported negative impact on self-esteem. Therefore, relevant parties should consider strategies for monitoring and preventing these associated factors to reduce the incidence of potential mental health issues in the future.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Non-Responder Depression in The First Treatment of Adult Patients at Samutprakarn Hospital

Krittin Wannarong — 2025-03-19

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of non-responder depression and the association between the factors and the non-responder depression in the first treatment of adult patients at Samutprakarn hospital.

Methods: This is a retrospective descriptive study which collected data from adult patients aged ≥18 years who were newly diagnosed with major depressive disorder by psychiatrists in the outpatient psychiatric and substance abuse clinic at Samutprakarn hospital. The study covered the period from October 2022 to April 2024 and included patients who continued to follow up with treatment consistently. The 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to assess the severity of depression both before and during treatment to monitor the response to treatment. The non-responder group was defined as patients whose scores decreased by less than 50 % from their baseline scores, despite receiving an adequate dose of the initial antidepressant within a 12-week period. Pearson’s chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, Independent t-test and Logistic regression model were used to determine the association between different clinical variables.

Results: This study included a total of 159 participants. Among them, 99 patients (62.24%) with depression responded to treatment, while 60 patients (37.74%) did not. In the non-responsive group, higher proportions of female were observed (p-value = 0.011), along with a younger age (p-value = 0.010), greater chronicity of stressors (p-value < 0.001), higher history of hospital admissions for depression as the primary diagnosis (p-value = 0.032), more outpatient follow-up visits during the first six months (p-value < 0.001), and more medication prescriptions including second-generation antipsychotics and mood stabilizers (p-value = 0.008 and p-value < 0.001 respectively). In addition, the group showed lower medication adherence (p-value = 0.003). In the logistic regression model, comorbid anxiety disorders and being married were associated with non-responsive group (p-value = 0.033 and p-value = 0.039 respectively)

Conclusion: The prevalence of non-responder depression in this study was 37.74%. Factors associated with non-response to initial treatment for depression included age, gender, marital status, comorbid anxiety disorders, history of hospital admissions, frequency of outpatient visits, medical adherence, and certain prescribed medications. Many of these factors are modifiable and can be addressed through preventive measures and improvements in the healthcare system to enhance the effectiveness of care for the patients.

The Prevalence of Alcohol Drinking and Associated Factors in Police Officers in One Metropolitan Police Division

Pawanrat Chantrikitikul — 2025-03-19

Objectives: To study the prevalence of alcohol drinking behavior among police officers in one metropolitan police division and to explore factors associated with problematic drinking behavior.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on police officers in one metropolitan police division. Total 339 sampled participants were recruited by convenience sampling. Data collection was carried out through the Google Forms platform from October 1^st 2023 to April 30^th 2024. The self-rated questionnaires included demographic data, drinking behavior, and The Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT). Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were used for data analysis.

Results: Most participants were male (94.7%) and with an average age of 40.4 years. The prevalence of alcohol drinking among police officers was 88.2%. The percentages of low-risk, hazardous, harmful, and high-risk alcohol drinking pattern were 45.7%, 31.6%, 8.3%, and 14.4%, respectively. The mean age of first exposure to alcohol was 20.5 years. The primary reasons for drinking were socializing and peer influence. The most popular type of alcohol was beer, and common drinking venues were their own homes and restaurants, mainly in the evening. Most of them also had a history of smoking. Factors associated with harmful and high-risk for dependence drinking behavior included having less than a bachelor’s degree, insufficient income for expenses, current smoking, and moderate-to-high perceived stress.

Conclusion: Police officers are professionals responsible for public safety and well-being. This study revealed that more than half of the police officers in a metropolitan division consume alcohol, primarily during social gatherings with colleagues after work. Factors associated with problematic alcohol consumption included below undergraduate degree , financial difficulties, smoking, and occupational stress due to excessive workload. Addressing these factors may help reduce the prevalence of alcohol dependency within this population.

Sleep Quality among Post COVID Syndrome Patients

Naruttha Norphun — 2025-03-19

Objective: To study the quality of sleep in patients with COVID-19 after recovery.

Methods: A retrospective study was done in 480 patients who had recovered from COVID-19. Analyze previously collected data from earlier research, which consists of interviews and is accompanied by a questionnaire including general information, the Thai version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (Thai HADS). Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis for general information. Logistic regression in both bivariative and multivariative analyses was applied to find the association between sleep quality and various factors.

Results: 36.5% of the participant had poor sleep quality. The overall average sleep quality score was 5.09. The average sleep duration per night was 6.8 hours, and the overall sleep efficiency was 89%. Sleep quality was significantly associated with the presence of psychiatric comorbidities and experiencing anxiety and depressive symptom, with a statistical significance level of 0.05.

Conclusion: Most patients who recovered from COVID-19 had good sleep quality. The presence of psychiatric comorbidities and experiencing anxiety and depressive symptom significantly affected sleep quality.

Caring and Escorting Foreign Psychiatric Patients Overseas

Kasem Tantiphlachiva — 2025-03-19

The author told his experiences in caring and escorting foreign psychiatric patients oveseas, including what to prepare, limitations and emergency problem solvings.

Seven Decades of the Journal of the Psychiatric Association of Thailand: Looking Back and Then Looking Forward

Pichet Udomratn — 2025-03-19

This year is the 70^thanniversary of the Journal of the Psychiatric Association of Thailand. As a member of the association, who regularly readss this journal and is a former editor and former president of the Psychiatric Association of Thailand, I have compiled information about the Journal of the Psychiatric Association for members to know in general and to serve as historical evidence if there is any further research on this subject in the future.