#ThailandMentalHealth

A remarkable story is sparking global conversations about mental health and unconventional paths to healing, as an American man’s quest to visit every country in the world helped him confront lifelong obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and shape a narrative of resilience and connection. His journey, chronicled in a recent CNN feature, offers fresh insights with far-reaching implications—including for readers in Thailand—about how challenging oneself in unfamiliar settings may support mental wellbeing.

Traveling with OCD was never about mere adventure for this individual, who grew up grappling with relentless cycles of troubling thoughts and a need for control—hallmarks of OCD as defined by the Mayo Clinic’s characterization of “unwanted thoughts and fears (obsessions)” that drive repetitive behaviors (Mayo Clinic). Instead, travel became a lifeline. In the words of the world traveler, “OCD feeds on control: controlling your environment, routines, and outcomes. But when you’re navigating chaotic borders, sleeping on floors, or figuring things out in countries where you don’t speak the language, you’re forced to surrender control. It’s uncomfortable, but also freeing.” This sense of liberation from rigid routines was key to his healing process.

In a fast-paced world, where being busy is often equated with success, a hidden mental health challenge is emerging from the shadows: high-functioning depression. Contrary to the stereotypical view of depression as debilitating, high-functioning depression involves individuals who, despite experiencing inner turmoil, continuously achieve and excel in their daily lives. This condition is now receiving attention thanks to a recent study intent on transforming our understanding of mental health care.

A recent open letter addressed to University of Ghana professor Ransford Gyampo has sparked discussions on the importance of language in the context of mental health. The letter, written by Nana Yaw Osei, Ph.D., criticizes the use of the term “mad” to describe individuals with serious mental illnesses (SMI). This critique highlights a broader need to address how mental health is perceived and discussed both publicly and in academia.

In the letter, Dr. Osei argues that terms like “mad” are not only derogatory but also epistemologically naïve and professionally offensive. The commentary reflects a growing awareness that language shapes public perception and stigma around mental health. In this context, it’s important to use terminology that respects the dignity of individuals living with mental health conditions. The United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines SMI as a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder that significantly interferes with an individual’s life.