In a poignant appeal during a recent parliamentary debate on the budget bill, Move Forward MP Sirilapas Kongtrakarn candidly shared her personal battle with depression, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced public funding for mental healthcare in Thailand.
The 36-year-old politician, known as Mew, disclosed her struggles with depression, addressing a spectrum of mental health issues, including postpartum depression and challenges faced by the elderly. Tearfully, she implored her fellow parliamentarians to prioritize mental health and ensure proper treatment for those in need.
Survivor’s Story
Sirilapas regularly opens up about her experiences with depression, hoping that her journey can inspire others to face and overcome similar challenges. She stressed the importance of breaking the stigma associated with mental health issues and emphasized that these conditions are treatable, encouraging individuals to seek help and move forward.
A Public Figure in Showbiz
Having entered the entertainment industry as a teenager, Sirilapas, a former beauty pageant contestant, has navigated the public spotlight with grace. Her showbiz career includes over 40 television series, three movies, and hosting duties on eight TV programs. Despite the pressures of fame, she successfully balanced her entertainment career with academic pursuits, earning a bachelor’s degree with second-class honors from Kasetsart University and later completing a master’s degree at Sripathum University with a remarkable GPA of 4.00.
Navigating Personal Struggles
Sirilapas has faced public scrutiny for her personal life, including high-profile breakups and social media attention. She admitted to bouts of heavy drinking and periods of depression that led to self-destructive behaviors, including self-harm and multiple suicide attempts. Reflecting on these challenges, she highlights the importance of learning from mistakes and using both positive and negative experiences to mature and grow.
A Political Voice
Despite facing alleged persecution by authorities for her political stance against the military-backed governments, Sirilapas found a new platform within the Move Forward Party. Joining just over a year ago, she campaigned vigorously and successfully secured a seat as an MP in Bangkok’s Constituency 14 during the last May’s election.
Resilience and Growth
Refusing to succumb to criticism about her past, Sirilapas views her experiences as valuable lessons that have shaped her into a more mature individual. She remains committed to her political mission within the Move Forward Party, focusing on positive changes to improve Thailand.
In her own words, “I have become more mature now, and my mission is about making changes that improve Thailand.” Sirilapas Kongtrakarn’s journey is a testament to resilience, advocacy, and the pursuit of positive transformation.