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.
The findings carry relevance for Thailand as policymakers consider how education and economic factors shape mental well-being. In Portugal, unemployment and economic inactivity are associated with higher anxiety. About 41.9% of the unemployed report generalized anxiety disorder, compared with 28.4% of the employed. This points to the stabilizing role of steady work, a consideration for Thai economic and social programs.
The survey also gauges life satisfaction, averaging 7.3 out of 10, up slightly from 7.1 the year before. While satisfaction rose across most groups, younger people, men, and those with higher education reported the strongest gains. Such nuances can help Thai authorities tailor mental health strategies and public surveys to local demographics.
Thailand is actively expanding its mental health initiatives. Lessons from Portugal suggest integrating mental health education in schools and workplaces, improving access to services, and strengthening economic opportunities to reduce anxiety. A cultural emphasis on open conversations about mental health—supported by public campaigns and government programs—can drive progress.
Attention to rural areas remains critical. Ensuring that mental health resources reach underserved communities will help close gaps in access and outcomes. An inclusive approach that links education, economic stability, and mental health awareness is essential for long-term resilience.
Data from European research highlights how education and employment status influence anxiety levels, reinforcing the need for holistic policy design in Thailand. By prioritizing mental health as a public health priority and embedding it in social and economic policies, Thailand can improve both life satisfaction and overall well-being.