Thailand Hosts First-Ever World Mental Health Conference and Retreat 2025Promoting Mindfulness, Concentration, and Wisdom for a Fulfilling Life

The Mindfulness Academy of Asia, in collaboration with the Community Learning Center, proudly hosted Thailand’s first international mental health workshop conference titled "World Mental Health Conference and Retreat 2025." The event aims to raise global awareness about mental health care while promoting mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom as key foundations for a happier and more successful life.

The conference took place at The American School of Bangkok Green Valley (ASB Green Valley) in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan, and welcomed distinguished guests. Among them were Mr. Siriphong Angkasakulkiat, Assistant Minister of Education; Mr. Chakrapong Sangmanee, Advisor to the Prime Minister; H.E. Mr. Rachmat Budiman, Indonesian Ambassador to Thailand; embassy representatives; Maj. Gen. Chatree Chanpitak, Commandant of the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School; Navy Capt. Jesda Luangwong; Dr. Lakkhana Ditsayasanin, Founder of The American School of Bangkok; Assoc. Prof. Pol. Col. (F) Dr. Thaddao Chomlak, Dean of the Faculty of Law at the Royal Police Cadet Academy; Dr. Athirat Charukitpipat, CEO of Bumrungrad Hospital; Dr. Somkit Udomkijmongkol, Director of Prince Suvarnabhumi Hospital; and many internationally recognized experts and speakers from both Thailand and overseas.

Ms. Nisanart Thammakesiratana, Director of ASB Green Valley and the Mindfulness Academy of Asia

Ms. Nisanart Thammakesiratana, Director of ASB Green Valley and the Mindfulness Academy of Asia, who also served as the event's co-chair, emphasized that the conference is part of a global movement to improve mental well-being for both adults and children.

"Emotional suffering can strike anyone at any time. Our institution has long recognized the importance of addressing mental health issues by encouraging mindfulness practices that build focus and wisdom," she said. "Participants will learn to free themselves from the weight of memories and perceptions, gaining a deeper understanding of reality. We have gathered world-class experts to lead lectures and workshops that provide real-world tools for living wisely."

She also explained, "Mindfulness alone is not enough. True mental strength requires the integration of mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom. Only when all three are cultivated together can people make better decisions and successfully face life’s challenges. This seminar introduces practical methods for dealing with suffering and sadness, helping participants reshape their minds through an understanding of impermanence and reality. It is also a historic moment to have officers from the New York Police Department (NYPD) share their spiritual journeys, offering rare perspectives seldom seen elsewhere."

"This event is a collaboration built on compassion, aiming to uplift those burdened by emotional struggles and guiding them to discover universal truths that lead to inner peace and success," Ms. Nisanart concluded.

Mr. Hartanto Gunawan Director of the Community Learning Center and event co-chair

Mr. Hartanto Gunawan, Director of the Community Learning Center and event co-chair, is a pioneer in "Research Meditation," a method that adapts Buddhist teachings into practical mental training.

"When problems arise, people tend to overthink, which only deepens their stress. Meditation, especially Vipassana, trains the mind to observe and recognize the impermanence of all things, which is the fundamental truth of nature," he said.

He continued, "For a long time, education systems have focused mainly on physical education while neglecting mental training. This conference marks the beginning of a new movement to incorporate mental education into the curriculum, starting with ASB Green Valley and the Mindfulness Academy of Asia, and eventually expanding worldwide."

"I chose Thailand as the venue for the first World Mental Health Conference and Retreat because Thailand and its teachings saved my life. I want to give back by helping establish Thailand as a global center for mental resilience and wisdom," Mr. Hartanto added.

Dr. Lakkhana Ditsayasanin, Founder of The American School of Bangkok

The event officially opened with welcoming remarks by Dr. Lakkhana Ditsayasanin, Founder of The American School of Bangkok, followed by an inspiring keynote speech by H.E. Mr. Rachmat Budiman, Indonesian Ambassador to Thailand.

The learning sessions began with Mr. Hartanto Gunawan’s talk on "Revolutionizing Mental Health Curriculum," followed by Mr. William Villafranco’s presentation on "Nursing Scholarships for Thai Students."

H.E. Mr. Rachmat Budiman, Indonesian Ambassador to Thailand.

One of the highlights of the event was the session led by NYPD Officer Jimmy Ferrazzo and Detective Luis Lopez, who traveled from the United States to speak on "Resilience and Wellness within Law Enforcement." They shared personal insights into the mental health struggles faced by police officers, noting that officer suicides often outnumber deaths in the line of duty. Since being introduced to Research Meditation in 2022, many NYPD officers have experienced reduced anxiety and stronger emotional resilience through the Police Organization Providing Peer Assistance (P.O.P.P.A.) program.

Other notable sessions included Mr. Thada Savetsila, Chairman of Junior Achievement Thailand and advisor to True Corporation and the Ministry of Education, who spoke on "Deep Listening: The Path to Mindful and Wise Leadership."

Asst. Prof. Dr. Wattanee Panjinda from Siam University presented on "Enhancing Student Mental Health through Virtue, Concentration, and Wisdom."

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Monti Datta discussed "Mindful and Wise Leadership at the University of Richmond," followed by Dr. Amber Manning-Quellette’s session from Oklahoma State University titled "Stillwater Strong: Resilience in Challenging Moments."

The World Mental Health Conference and Retreat 2025 will continue offering sessions daily until April 27, 2025.