On February 14, 2023, the Cultural Art Center of Bangkok witnessed the launch of 'The Love Choose Wisely, Love Positively,' organized by the Youth Risk Reduction Network, supported by the Health Promotion Foundation. This initiative aimed to raise awareness about the significance of healthy relationships among the youth, highlighting the importance of choosing love wisely. The event featured discussions, data presentation, and the sharing of experiences related to love and relationships. Major concerns were raised about youth engagement with risky behaviors like substance abuse and gambling during this special day dedicated to love.
During the event, Mr. Wichachit Pichai Rat, Board Member of the Health Promotion Foundation, emphasized the importance of fostering awareness among youth to maintain healthy relationships free from negative influences. He highlighted disturbing statistics; approximately 1.9 million young people, accounting for 20.9% of the youth population, consume alcoholic beverages, making them vulnerable to road accidents. Similarly, about 32.3% of youths aged 15-25 participate in online gambling, indicating alarming trends related to personal safety and well-being.
Data shared during the seminar revealed disheartening trends about how youth handle relationship conflicts. A survey conducted among 2,200 individuals aged 13 to 25 indicated high frequencies of quarrels among couples. Approximately 49.6% of respondents stated they occasionally quarrel, with 25.3% admitting frequent fights over misunderstandings and personal behaviors. The survey highlighted substance abuse as one of the primary catalysts for conflicts among couples, showcasing the intricacies of relationship dynamics among the youth.
One poignant testimony from Ms. Bee, pseudonym of a young woman who faced toxicity within her relationship, highlighted the need for those entangled in unhealthy love to prioritize self-respect and healing. After experiencing threats and emotional abuse, she broke free from her toxic partner and encouraged others to recognize the importance of self-love and secure relationships.
Model and Miss Universe Thailand 2015, Ms. Aniporn Chalermburanawong, also shared her experiences of self-love and caution. She articulated the necessity of maintaining individual boundaries even amid affection, asserting her commitment to self-empowerment and empowerment of others. This emphasis on self-worth and awareness stood out as attendees expressed gratitude for creating spaces where they can share and solve issues related to relationships.
Throughout the program, discussions revolved around the need for open communication among partners and the importance of spaces to consult experts about relationship issues. Approximately 85.7% of surveyed youth voiced support for creating forum spaces for guidance on adolescent problems, indicating awareness of the importance of receiving help.
Meanwhile, the festive atmosphere attracted locals to the Erawan Shrine, widely believed to be Bangkok's heart for love. Many flocked this venue to express their hopes for love and relationships by participating in rituals and making wishes. With Valentine’s being recognized globally, dozens of couples made their way to this iconic shrine, offering prayers and celebrating their love.
The juxtaposition of reality and the idealized love culture characterized by Valentine's Day highlights the urgent necessity of interventions to combat the social issues surrounding young love, choice, and respect for self-worth. Policymakers and community organizations call for continuous educational campaigns to promote healthy relationships, thereby safeguarding youth from the toxic influences permeated through various social channels.
Given the backdrop of emotional responses from the participants, the event served as both a celebration of love and reality check, promising continual efforts toward nurturing positive youth engagement, paving the way for 'love wisely' to manifest positively within communities.