Public trust in the military-backed government has nose-dived in the aftermath of the New Year's Eve bombings, according to a poll.

Support for the Surayud Chulanont administration has been slashed to just 48.5 per cent, the survey revealed. Before the bombings the government enjoyed a 90-per-cent support rating.

The Abac Poll Research Centre poll suggests the New Year's Eve bombings are behind the loss of faith in the government, according to its director Dr Noppadon Kannika.

Nevertheless, 96.3 per cent of respondents to the poll were eager to cooperate with authorities to protect citizens.

The poll was carried out at four areas hit by the bombs, including Victory Monument, the worst-hit location. Almost 1,600 people were interviewed.

The poll found 46.4 per cent think "groups that have lost political power" were behind the attacks.

Four in 10 people had no comment when asked if they agreed with suggestions made by Surayud about those responsible for the bombs.

Mental Health Department director ML Dr Somchai Chakrabhand said a loss of trust in leaders was natural following major violent incidents.

"This feeling will last for a while. Seeing soldiers standing guard at public places, for example, helps the public regain a sense of security," he said.

He said the government needed to quickly bring the culprits to justice to restore public confidence.

"Take the London bombs for example. Suspects were arrested shortly after the incident and that made the public feel considerably more secure," Somchai added.

The poll revealed Bangkok residents now live in fear of further attacks. Just more than half said their lives were affected and one in three have avoided using public transport. One fifth cannot sleep, Noppadon said.

Vendors at the bombing locations have been deeply affected, he added.

Meanwhile, bomb survivors have started to present symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder.

Psychiatrists said survivors in hospital were likely to develop the disorder. Those who witnessed the blast may develop symptoms, too, said psychiatrist Umporn Benjapolpitak.

Other conditions such as depression and suicidal tendencies can emerge, she added.

"Who knows how severe the scars in their minds are?" Umporn said.

It is important survivors are counselled because mental disorders can take months to develop, she added.

Arthit Khwankhom

The Nation