Bangkok Hospital Pattaya is helping patients use their heart and emotions to reduce stress through “art therapy.”
Wichai Thammatucharee, managing director for Manopap Co., which organized the exhibit for the hospital, opened the Sept. 17 seminar, turning over the podium to BHP Director Pichit Kangwolkij, who noted art therapy is available until Oct. 17.
He explained that art can help the sick by channeling interests and emotions into drawing, painting, sculpture, and collage. For more than 10 years, Dr. Pacharin Sukhonthabhirom Na Pattalung said she has been successfully using art therapy to treat the ill.
(L to R) Dr. Pacharin Sukhonthabhirom Na Pattalung, BHP Director Pichit Kangwolkij and Wichai Thammatucharee, managing director for Manopap Co., introduce the new art therapy program at the hospital.
Pacharin said art therapy integrates psychotherapeutic techniques with the creative process to improve mental health and well-being. That also reduces obsession over the illness, creates enjoyment and reduces stress. Art therapy can also be used to treat a wide range of mental disorders and psychological distress, he claimed.
In many cases, it might be used in conjunction with other psychotherapy techniques such as group therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy.
The event continued with an art gallery tour of various artists on the second floor. Hospital administrators are encouraging independent artists and art students to display their work in the hospital, since it is their intention to give the hospital the appearance of an art gallery. They hope that creates a much better atmosphere, which can be of a therapeutic benefit to patients.
Art is also available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds going to charity foundations of the buyer’s choice.
