*This article reveals some content from the series 'Sathu 2'.
Recently, 'Sathu 2' has become one of the most talked-about Thai series. Beyond challenging perspectives on society and religion, this installment takes us further with more complex and nuanced storytelling.
Aside from religion, which is central to its message, another key theme is the satire of current trends around 'healing spaces' that are popular today.
One notable scene in 'Sathu 2' features Don, a former famous monk and preacher, and Dear, a new organizer, leading a luxurious wellness retreat amid serene surroundings with Tibetan bowls and Don’s philosophical monologues, translated by Dear. Instead of healing, the session triggers trauma for one participant, leading to a suicide attempt.
This scene prompts questions about the contemporary phenomenon where 'mental care' becomes a commercial product. Anyone can host or organize such events if they have a beautiful venue, professional management, and profound rhetoric that projects an image of grand “enlightenment.”
It seems expertise in psychology, counseling or therapy skills, professional licensing, and readiness to handle resulting issues are often relegated to near the bottom of priorities.
When attempts at relaxation lead to anxiety
Psychologically, meditation or deep internal exploration led by untrained individuals does not always bring calm. Research on long-term meditators found over 62% experienced side effects such as increased anxiety, confusion, or intensified negative emotions. This phenomenon, sometimes called Relaxation-Induced Anxiety (RIA), shows that without proper screening, preparation, and support, good intentions can have unintended consequences.
From “opening the heart” to “opening wounds”: The importance of a safety framework
Events in 'Sathu 2' reflect risks when spaces claiming safety lack true safety frameworks to contain emotions or trauma that may surface. This is why the mental health field developed concepts like Trauma-Informed Care (TIC).
TIC does not directly treat trauma but designs all processes considering participants may have trauma histories. It builds trust, transparency, empowers decision-making, and crucially prevents retraumatization through careful choice of words and activities. Good intentions alone are insufficient without deep understanding and prevention measures.
Mental care in Thailand is increasing, but standards may still be inadequate
It is encouraging that trends focus on both physical and mental care, with emotions and mental states increasingly discussed in media to raise awareness. However, growing demand has also led to more amateur therapists (paraprofessionals). The Child and Family Policy Knowledge Center (Kid for Kids) explains these individuals call themselves 'consulting psychologists' or 'therapists' despite only short training or none at all.
Though well-intentioned, this poses risks for vulnerable clients. Legal accountability is difficult because such care may lack clear state regulation. Some practices derive from global cultural developments but remain in a gray area without formal recognition or comprehensive legal oversight.
So, what kind of space is truly safe?
Though mental care can seem complicated and costly, basic healing does not always require complexity or expense. Simple conversations with a trusted person—like a nighttime talk with a mother who acknowledges past faults and apologizes—can create powerful safe spaces based on unconditional positive regard, as Carl Rogers proposed.
Even peer-to-peer conversations can support mental well-being if listening is nonjudgmental and boundaries are clear. Zimbabwe’s Friendship Bench project trains community volunteers to listen using brief therapy techniques, showing structured dialogue can significantly reduce depression, provided there is awareness of when to listen and when to refer to professionals.
Individuals also have many simple ways to relax, such as exercise, writing, or just resting quietly.
However, trust is not a therapy license, and good intentions do not guarantee good outcomes. Before deciding to “open your heart” in any activity or to anyone, ask yourself if the space is prepared to handle what may emerge. When you emotionally bare yourself, how can you be sure the other person can truly care for you?
While it may be unclear which methods are right or which schools are better, as someone about to open their heart, beyond attractive presentations or persuasive words, look deeper at who manages the space, their background, education, licensing, and qualifications. This can help increase your safety.
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