Having worked in and traveled to many countries, most recently as the Ambassador
and Permanent Representative of Thailand to the United Nations, I have
seen people in different societies react to trauma in various ways. While experts
contributed to this important book, Trauma Psychology: Issues in Violence, Disaster,
Health, and Illness, I share my perspectives from serving the people of Thailand and
other nations and from my experiences in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami that
struck the cities and towns in the Indian Ocean rim, including Thailand. However,
in all cultures, it is essential to recognize the importance of the psychological
well-being of communities as being essential to recovery in the aftermath of
disaster and crises.