Politics stressing you out?
The Mental Health Department yesterday issued a warning about the emergence of what it calls political stress syndrome (PSS) and opened a hotline - 1323 - for sufferers to call for help.
Surveys found that from 25-33 per cent of the population was suffering from PSS, said Somchai Chakraphan, the department's director-general."It's the first time in my 30 years' experience that we have found very clear symptoms of political stress among citizens, despite the many political crises previously," he said. Physical symptoms of PSS include insomnia, headaches, muscle strain and chest pain, while the mental and emotional symptoms include irritability, lack of concentration, feelings of despair and mood swings. Those suffering from PSS are also argumentative and prone to violence. Somchai advised those with symptoms of PSS to pay less attention to politics, exercise more and engage in relaxing activities. Those suffering symptoms for more than one week should consult a psychiatrist, he said. Somchai also urged those responsible for the political turmoil to resolve the conflict soon to prevent people from being driven to violence or other anti-social behaviour.
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