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Abstract
Renewing the dialogue: Buddhism-based counseling for PLHAs in Thailand
S. Sungkam
Issues: Even though Buddhism is Thailand’s official religion, the role of today’s monks have been reduced to holiday and funeral rituals. Faith-based counseling for PLHAs provides monks with the opportunity to, once again, be active members of the community.
Description: The Monks Network on AIDS in Thailand began in 1994 with HIV/AIDS care and prevention programs. Almost a decade later, the Network’s monks received training in faith-based counseling through an interfaith network. Since then, 150 monks have been trained in counseling and home visitations.
One set of teachings that have been adapted for PLHAs is the Buddha’s Four Noble Truths:
1) The Nature of Suffering,
2) Suffering’s Origin,
3) Suffering’s Cessation and
4) The Way to Cessation of Suffering.
In using such teachings, monks are able to start a dialogue with PLHAs and address their personal ‘sufferings’.
This method of counseling is provided by trained monks in local communities and at the religious counseling centers at some district hospitals. In 2007, PLHAs and the affected received these services from 330 monks and additional male and female volunteers.
Lessons learned: In Thai Buddhism, religious teaching has become much more passive. Monks lecture at schools, funerals and religious holiday celebrations, where they address general concerns to a relatively anonymous audience. Counseling for PLHAs is a way to renew the monk’s role in direct dialogue.
In addition, as respected community leaders, the monks’ physical interactions with PLHAs reduces public stigma and discrimination.
Next steps: Monks should become more active participants at the community level, as well as advocate for policies that permit a greater role of religion in society.
AIDS 2008 - XVII International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
THPE0592
Suggested Citation
" S. Sungkam
Renewing the dialogue: Buddhism-based counseling for PLHAs in Thailand.
:
AIDS 2008 - XVII International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
THPE0592"
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