Health Behaviors for Well-being of Karen Group: Traditional Rituals and Mental Health across Four Cultures

Abstract

In recent years, mental health issues among Thai youth have been increasing. This review article explores the relationship between mental health and indigenous rituals from various regions, examining how these rituals contribute to mental well-being. This study aims to suggest solutions for maintaining and enhancing well-being by utilizing the local knowledge of ethnic minority groups. It applies the “Eight Dimensions of Well-being model”, which offers comprehensive perspectives on well-being, to the traditional rituals of the Sámi, the Navajo, the Ainu, and the Karen groups. Data were gathered from various academic sources, ethnographic studies and historical record. The findings indicate that these rituals strengthen the emotional and mental dimensions of well-being for both participants and other involved. Based on these insights, the study suggests establishing “safety nets” to enhance well-being and activating the supportive functions embedded within existing cultural practices. One expected outcome of building these safety nets is the reduction of social security costs through a grassroots initiative that does not rely on large-scale fiscal spending.