Mental Health

In a world increasingly dominated by digital screens, new research from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden sheds light on the concerning interplay between screen time, sleep disruption, and rising depression rates among teenagers. Published recently in PLOS Global Public Health, the study underscores the critical need for stakeholders, including parents and educators, to tackle this growing issue with urgency.

The study analyzed data from over 4,800 adolescents, aged 12 to 16, tracking their screen use, sleep habits, and mental health symptoms over one year. It discovered that excessive screen time significantly compromises both the quality and duration of sleep, which in turn elevates depression risk, notably among young girls. For boys, the link between screen use and depression was more straightforward, while for girls, disrupted sleep was the pivotal factor connecting screen exposure to mood disorders.

A traditional herb known as Bhulan Bel, scientifically related to Cuscuta and commonly called dodder, is drawing renewed global interest for potential stress relief, anxiety reduction, and mental clarity. Contemporary research and a revived interest in Ayurveda’s history are pushing Bhulan Bel into the spotlight for wellness and scientific exploration alike.

Bhulan Bel stands out for its use as a parasitic plant in ancient medicine to calm the nervous system. Proponents suggest its soothing compounds may offer a natural alternative to some pharmaceutical approaches, helping ease tension and reduce anxiety without the heavier side effects often associated with synthetic drugs. This aligns with a growing demand for holistic strategies to support mental well-being in a fast-paced world.

A vital mental health program in Massachusetts that supports children and teens with severe mental health issues could be shut down due to budget constraints. Governor Maura Healey’s budget proposal includes significant cuts, stirring concern among families, clinicians, and community organizations about the impact on vulnerable youth.

The Intensive Residential Treatment Program, which provides long-term care across 72 beds for young children and adolescents, aims to heal families as a unit. A mother whose child benefited from the program shared that it helped save her child’s life. Her child, now 25, faced suicidality, self-harm, and trauma before joining the program, where sustained support and family involvement helped stabilize their recovery. She noted that in-patient hospital stays offered only short-term stabilization, whereas the program’s extended care was crucial for lasting improvement.

Recent research findings suggest a connection between parental education levels and increased stress among children, particularly as they enter college. This investigation, conducted by researchers in Germany and Switzerland, emphasizes an emerging trend where children of highly educated parents experience higher stress levels, notably when transitioning to higher education source.

Understanding why this connection might matter to Thai readers requires considering both global trends and local contexts. Many Thai families, particularly in urban areas, highly prioritize education, often equating academic success with future prosperity and stability. As such, the pressure to perform and succeed academically is not only a personal or familial expectation but a societal one that resonates within Thailand. This reflects broader international findings where heightened parental expectations can inadvertently contribute to youth stress.

A recent open letter addressed to University of Ghana professor Ransford Gyampo has sparked discussions on the importance of language in the context of mental health. The letter, written by Nana Yaw Osei, Ph.D., criticizes the use of the term “mad” to describe individuals with serious mental illnesses (SMI). This critique highlights a broader need to address how mental health is perceived and discussed both publicly and in academia.

In the letter, Dr. Osei argues that terms like “mad” are not only derogatory but also epistemologically naïve and professionally offensive. The commentary reflects a growing awareness that language shapes public perception and stigma around mental health. In this context, it’s important to use terminology that respects the dignity of individuals living with mental health conditions. The United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines SMI as a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder that significantly interferes with an individual’s life.

A recent open letter to University of Ghana professor Ransford Gyampo has sparked global debates about how language shapes perceptions of mental health. Written by Nana Yaw Osei, Ph.D., the letter criticizes the use of the term “mad” to describe people with serious mental illnesses. This critique underscores a broader push to talk about mental health with dignity and accuracy in both public life and academic settings.

Dr. Osei argues that words like “mad” are not only insulting but also intellectually naïve and professionally inappropriate. The discussion reflects a growing consensus that language influences public attitudes and stigma toward mental health. In Thailand, as in many countries, careful terminology is essential to preserve the dignity of individuals living with mental health conditions.

New findings suggest that higher parental education may be linked to greater stress in children, especially as they enter college. The research, conducted by scientists in Europe, notes a growing pattern where children of well-educated parents report more stress around the transition to higher education. The study emphasizes how family expectations can shape young people’s mental health during this pivotal period.

In Thailand, education is deeply tied to social expectations and family pride. Urban Thai families often view academic success as a path to stability and opportunity, which can translate into strong parental pressure. This cultural context helps explain why similar global patterns may resonate locally: high expectations can inadvertently contribute to youth stress.

In recent times, America’s internal policies and strategic decisions have increasingly been described as self-harming. With significant implications globally, this trend impacts international relations, economic stability, and health systems worldwide. For Thai readers, understanding these developments is crucial, not only because of the global interconnectedness of today’s world but also due to the direct implications for Thailand’s economy and tourism sector, heavily reliant on American trade and visitors.

At the heart of America’s self-harming actions are policy decisions impacting climate change, healthcare, and economic inequality. Notably, recent U.S. withdrawal from key international climate agreements has slowed global progress in combating climate change—a critical issue for Thailand, which is among countries highly vulnerable to climate impacts such as rising sea levels and increasing frequency of natural disasters.

In a groundbreaking study published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, researchers have found that individuals who experience social disconnectedness face significantly higher risks of various medical conditions. This study, conducted by Lisbeth Mølgaard Laustsen and colleagues, reveals that loneliness, social isolation, and lack of social support—the three core measures of social disconnectedness—are linked to an increase in illnesses, impacting almost all major health categories (source).

This research is critical for Thai readers who can draw parallels with societal changes in Thailand, where urbanization often leads to reduced family time and a potential for increased social isolation. The study, utilizing data from the Danish National Health Survey, covered 162,604 participants and assessed social connections using tools like the Three-Item Loneliness Scale. The findings indicate that lonely individuals were at greater risk across 11 medical conditions, notably mental disorders and dementia, with loneliness being more influential than social isolation or low social support.

A fresh report from Portugal’s National Institute of Statistics shows that 32% of the population reports anxiety symptoms. The release, timed with World Health Day, also reveals a clear gender gap: 38.2% of women are affected versus 24.7% of men. For more severe anxiety, the gap remains, with 14.1% of women affected compared with 6.2% of men.

Data from the 2024 Income and Living Conditions Survey (ICOR) underscore the need for targeted mental health support across age groups. Older adults show higher vulnerability, while education appears protective, with higher education linked to lower anxiety levels.

Recent shifts in U.S. policy are being viewed as self-harming by some observers, with broad implications for global relations, economies, and health systems. For Thai readers, understanding these dynamics is essential given Thailand’s reliance on American trade, tourism, and influence in regional security.

First, policy choices on climate and the environment are pivotal. The United States’ approach to climate commitments affects global resilience and disaster preparedness. Thailand, a nation particularly exposed to rising sea levels and extreme weather, watches these developments closely as climate action shapes regional risk management and adaptation funding.

Recent figures released by Portugal’s National Institute of Statistics reveal a troubling statistic: 32% of the Portuguese population experiences symptoms of anxiety, marking a significant public health concern. These findings, shared on World Health Day, highlight a gender disparity where 38.2% of women are affected compared to 24.7% of men. At more severe levels, the prevalence of anxiety is even starker, with 14.1% of women affected versus 6.2% of men.

A large study published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences shows that people who feel socially disconnected face higher risks for many illnesses. The research, led by Lisbeth Mølgaard Laustsen and colleagues, highlights three measures of social disconnection: loneliness, social isolation, and lack of social support. Together, they are linked to more health problems across multiple categories.

For Thai audiences, the findings resonate with evolving urban lifestyles in Thailand, where busier cities can reduce time with family and neighbors. The Danish National Health Survey, which involved more than 162,000 participants, measured social connections with familiar tools like the Three-Item Loneliness Scale. Results indicate that loneliness raises the risk for 11 medical conditions, with mental disorders and dementia showing particularly strong links. Interestingly, loneliness appeared to be a stronger predictor than social isolation or low social support.

A gripping investigation into the cycle many patients experience—repeated hospitalizations, homelessness, and short-term fixes—spotlights the plight of those with serious mental illness. The telltale story centers on Adam Aurand, a mechanic diagnosed with multiple mental health disorders, whose life reflects systemic gaps in care. While the narrative comes from a Reveal News podcast, its lessons echo in Thailand, where similar barriers hinder lasting recovery.

Aurand’s experience shows how the churn unfolds: individuals circulate through clinics, shelters, and hospitals without a sustained, personalized plan. His struggles with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder were compounded by substance use and gaps in follow-up care, ultimately contributing to his death by overdose soon after discharge. This pattern is not unique and points to broader health system weaknesses.

A new Danish study finds that social disconnection—loneliness, social isolation, and low perceived support—may significantly raise the risk of multiple illnesses. The research, published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, shows that individuals who feel detached from others face higher incidence across 11 medical categories, with mental disorders being the most affected.

The findings carry global relevance, including in Thailand, where family and community bonds are central but facing modernization. Thai culture traditionally centers on collective living and mutual support. As urbanization and busy lifestyles intensify, more people may experience loneliness, a factor that could influence health outcomes.

In a sobering exploration of the cyclical plight faced by individuals with serious mental illness, a recent report delves into the story of Adam Aurand, a mechanic diagnosed with multiple mental health disorders, whose journey highlights systemic failures in mental health care. This narrative, detailed in a Reveal News podcast, offers insights that resonate globally, including in Thailand, where similar structural issues impede effective mental health care.

Adam Aurand’s life was marred by a repeated cycle of institutionalization, homelessness, and inadequate care — a phenomenon known as “the churn.” This occurs when individuals with serious mental conditions repeatedly pass through various care systems without receiving long-term solutions. In Adam’s case, his battles with mental disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder were compounded by substance abuse and inadequate mental health support, which ultimately led to his tragic death from a drug overdose shortly after being discharged from a psychiatric hospital.

A new study published in Nature Human Behavior challenges common stereotypes about only children. Researchers found that growing up without siblings can be associated with stronger mental health, greater creativity, and higher life satisfaction.

Led by a team of scientists in China, the study analyzed 7,186 participants aged 18 to 30. The research combined brain imaging, behavioral assessments, and socioeconomic and childhood trauma questionnaires. MRI scans compared grey and white matter in only children versus those with siblings, highlighting brain regions involved in thought, reasoning, and signal processing.

In a groundbreaking study published in the esteemed journal Nature Human Behavior, researchers have challenged the common stereotypes about only children. Contrary to the notion that single-child households breed “problem behaviors,” the study reveals that individuals raised without siblings often exhibit better mental health, enhanced creativity, and overall higher life satisfaction.

This comprehensive research, led by a group of scientists in China, including Jie Tang, Jing Zhang, and Wei Li, involved an extensive analysis of 7,186 individuals aged between 18 and 30. The subjects were evaluated using an array of methods such as brain imaging, behavioral assessments, and socioeconomic and childhood trauma questionnaires. Notably, the study utilized MRI scans to compare the brain structures—specifically the grey and white matter—of only children and those with siblings. The grey and white matter are crucial for thought, reasoning, and signal processing in the body.

A groundbreaking study from Denmark suggests that loneliness and social isolation might significantly elevate the risk of various medical conditions, highlighting an often-overlooked factor in public health. Published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, this research found that individuals experiencing social disconnection faced higher risks across 11 different categories of illnesses, with mental disorders being the most prevalent.

The profound implications of this study resonate worldwide, including in Thailand, where the dynamics of family and community are pivotal yet increasingly strained by societal shifts. Traditionally, Thai culture emphasizes collective living, with family units offering significant support. However, urban migration and lifestyle changes are leading more people into loneliness—a factor now confirmed to impact health negatively.

A growing body of evidence confirms that regular walking can boost mood. A new analysis in JAMA Network Open shows that adults who average more than 5,000 steps per day report fewer depression symptoms. The study pools data from 33 separate analyses, including nearly 96,000 participants, underscoring the meaningful mental health benefit of moderate physical activity.

In Thailand, where busy urban living and sedentary routines are common, the findings offer practical relevance. A modest daily change—adding steps—could improve well-being for many people. Thai communities, famed for street markets, temple fairs, and outdoor activities, may find it particularly feasible to reintroduce walking into daily life as life becomes more desk-bound.

A recent survey reveals a growing trend among Gen Z and millennials: the intentional scheduling of “worry time” to manage persistent anxiety. Conducted by Talker Research for Avocado Green Mattress, the study surveyed 2,000 Americans and found that 10% of younger respondents dedicate specific times to worry each day. This practice contrasts sharply with only 3% of older generations, like Gen X and baby boomers, who do the same.

This practice of scheduling worry time is reported to help participants limit their anxiety and improve mental health, providing a controlled space to manage stress, thereby reducing the overall time spent worrying. The research highlights that 62% of Gen Z and millennials feel trapped in a constant state of worry, compared to 38% among Gen X and baby boomers. On average, respondents worry for two hours and 18 minutes daily, typically peaking when they are alone, before falling asleep, or upon waking.

A recent survey uncovered a growing habit among Gen Z and millennials: they set specific times to worry each day. Conducted by Talker Research for Avocado Green Mattress, the study surveyed 2,000 Americans. It found that 10% of younger respondents designate dedicated worry periods, while only 3% of Gen X and baby boomers do the same.

Experts say this deliberate timing can help limit anxiety by providing a controlled space to process stress, potentially reducing overall rumination. The research shows 62% of Gen Z and millennials feel trapped in constant worry, compared with 38% of older generations. On average, respondents spend about two hours and 18 minutes worrying daily, with peaks when alone, late at night, or early in the morning.

Exercise has long been known as a natural mood booster, but a new study sheds light on just how impactful walking can be in the battle against depression. Published in JAMA Network Open, this research reveals that walking more than 5,000 steps per day is linked with a noticeable reduction in depression symptoms among adults. This analysis, which encompasses 33 separate studies involving over 96,000 participants, reinforces the important role that physical activity plays in mental health.

A recent study from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has uncovered a troubling effect of wildfire smoke beyond the well-known respiratory impacts. Researchers have found a significant correlation between exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke and an increase in emergency department visits for mental health conditions. This revelation comes at a time when wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe, posing a complex threat to public health globally.