As exam season intensifies across Thailand, mental health experts are sounding the alarm over rising levels of psychological distress among teenagers, with mounting research showing that exam stress can easily spiral into more severe mental health challenges if left unaddressed. Recent expert commentary, together with new policy scrutiny, is shedding light on how parents and educators can identify the turning point where ordinary anxiety becomes a call for urgent intervention, and what steps actually help teens through this pressure-cooker period.
For many Thai teenagers, the annual gauntlet of high-stakes exams—whether the Ordinary National Educational Test (O-NET), GAT/PAT, or critical entrance assessments—brings on sleepless nights, fears of failure, and family tensions. While moderate stress is normal and can even help sharpen focus, several warning signs indicate when anxiety risks tipping into something more serious. According to insights from psychotherapist and clinical lead at Priory, as featured in The Independent, these warning signs include excessive worrying, persistent overwhelm, panic attacks, avoidance behaviors such as skipping school or avoiding revision, and escalating negative self-talk or catastrophizing thoughts (The Independent, 2025). Teens may also experience physical symptoms such as digestive upsets and difficulty sleeping, and may even resort to unhealthy coping behaviors, including self-harm or substance misuse.
The distinction between “normal” exam jitters and more dangerous levels of distress matters profoundly. According to a recent study conducted among Bangkok high school students using the Suanprung Stress Test 20 (STSP-20), developed by Thailand’s Department of Mental Health, high rates of psychological distress are documented especially during exam periods (PMC, 2024). These pressures are magnified by the current climate of academic competition and limited university spots, making the stakes especially daunting for Thai adolescents. “Even though some level of anxiety is expected, parents and teachers must watch for escalating signs—persistent overwhelm, avoidance, or physiological symptoms that do not resolve,” explained a leading clinical psychologist in Bangkok’s public health system. “Failing to address these can lead to longer-lasting issues like depression or burnout.”
Unlike in some Western contexts—where individual therapy and open dialogue about mental health are increasingly normalized—Thai families may still hold back from discussing psychological difficulties openly, sometimes viewing stress as a necessary rite of passage or even as a sign of insufficient effort. But avoidance can exacerbate suffering. “Validating the student’s feelings and maintaining open communication is critical. Too often, Thai youth feel unable to express distress for fear of disappointing parents or losing face,” noted a Bangkok-based school counselor featured in a recent policy evaluation (Ethesis TU). This echoes the findings of global research, such as a qualitative study from Zimbabwe and Ghana, indicating that school-based interventions—especially those involving family engagement—are key to meaningful mental health support (PubMed, 2025).
Mental health professionals encourage parents to take practical steps: check in regularly with teens, allow them to express worries without judgment, help break study workloads into smaller pieces, and make sure students continue to sleep, eat nutritiously, and exercise. “Setting a balanced study schedule and incorporating rest periods is vital. Many Thai students try to ‘cram’ late into the night, but this often backfires and worsens anxiety and memory,” shared a counselor at a private Bangkok tutoring center. Encouraging healthy, non-academic routines—whether walking, mindfulness, or gentle stretching—can reduce physiological symptoms of anxiety.
Sleep and nutrition are frequently overlooked but are vital to mental performance under pressure (Irish News). “A healthy body supports a healthy mind. If teens skip meals or rely on instant noodles and energy drinks, their brain chemistry can worsen anxiety,” emphasized the clinical lead at Priory. Thai health experts echo this advice, urging schools to provide nutritious snack options especially during exam days and to limit energy drink marketing on campuses.
Nevertheless, in situations of persistent distress—where self-help strategies, school support, or family reassurance do not lead to improvement—outside help may be required. “If your child is consistently showing several warning signs—especially if you notice drastic changes in behavior, self-isolation, or expressions of hopelessness—reach out for professional support,” advised the school counselor. In Thailand, options include speaking to school mental health staff, using provincial Department of Mental Health hotlines, or seeking a clinical evaluation at public hospitals or community clinics. The Ministry of Public Health and Ministry of Education are working to expand in-school programs and are piloting a High School Mental Health Action Checklist, aimed at equipping teachers with clearer protocols for identifying and managing student distress (Frontiers in Public Health).
Exam stress is not simply an individual challenge, but one deeply rooted in Thai educational structures and cultural expectations. Historically, academic success has served as a marker of family status and is often a pathway to social mobility. The Buddhist concept of khanti (patience and perseverance) is traditionally emphasized, but today’s exam environment requires a balance between effort and self-compassion. “Parents and teachers should recognize that success is not solely determined by test scores. Focusing too narrowly on outcomes can erode a teen’s resilience and long-term well-being,” affirmed a representative from the national parents’ association.
Looking to the future, experts advocate for a more holistic approach in Thai education—one that includes mental health literacy, de-stigmatization, peer support networks, and greater parental involvement. International comparisons show that countries integrating social-emotional learning and mental health skills into the curriculum see improved academic and psychological outcomes. In Thailand, early results from pilot programs suggest that when students and parents are trained together in stress management and communication skills, rates of severe distress fall, and students report higher satisfaction and achievement (Ethesis TU).
As the current cohort of Thai teens navigates another demanding exam season, creating an environment where they feel safe to discuss their anxieties will be crucial—not only for academic results, but for lifelong mental health. Practical recommendations for Thai parents include: monitoring for warning signs such as avoidance or physical symptoms; encouraging regular rest, nutrition, and open dialogue; resisting the urge to impose additional pressure; and seeking professional support if signs of severe distress persist. Schools, too, have a vital role in building mental health literacy into daily routines and providing accessible channels for counseling.
For immediate help, families in Thailand can contact the Department of Mental Health hotline (1323), reach out to school counselors, or consult their nearest community health clinic. As the saying goes: the “real test” is not simply academic, but how well our society supports its youth to thrive under pressure, now and in the future.
Sources:
- “How to tell when your teen’s exam stress is out of control – and how to help” – The Independent
- Psychological Distress Among High School Students in Bangkok – PMC
- EVALUATING THAILAND’S MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION POLICY – Ethesis TU
- Developing a High School Mental Health Action Checklist in Thailand – Frontiers in Public Health
- Worried about exam stress? Help your teen focus with these smart nutrition tips – The Irish News