As Thailand enters peak exam season, mental health experts warn that rising distress among teens can quickly become a serious problem if left unaddressed. Policy discussions and clinician insights offer practical steps for parents and teachers to spot when anxiety crosses into danger and how students can cope during this demanding period.
For many Thai students, high-stakes tests such as the Ordinary National Educational Test (O-NET), GAT/PAT, or university entrance assessments trigger sleepless nights, fear of failure, and family tensions. Some stress can sharpen focus, but warning signs signal when anxiety becomes harmful. A Bangkok-based clinical lead at a major psychiatric hospital notes that persistent worry, overwhelm, panic episodes, avoidance of school or revision, and escalating negative self-talk indicate risk. Physical symptoms like stomach problems and insomnia, along with unhealthy coping behaviors such as self-harm or substance use, require immediate attention.
Distinguishing normal nerves from serious distress matters. A Bangkok study using Suanprung Stress Test 20 found elevated psychological distress among high school students during exam periods. The pressures are intensified by intense academic competition and limited university spots, making the stakes feel personal for Thai youths. A leading psychologist explains that ongoing overwhelm, avoidance, or persistent physical symptoms demand support, or they can lead to longer-term problems such as depression or burnout.
Thai families often approach mental health with caution. Some still view stress as a rite of passage or a sign of insufficient effort, which can hinder help-seeking. Validating students’ feelings and keeping lines of communication open is essential. A Bangkok school counselor notes that many youths fear disappointing their parents or losing face, which can silence distress. Research from Thai universities supports global findings that school-based family interventions yield meaningful mental health support.
Practical steps for parents include regular check-ins, listening without judgment, breaking study workloads into manageable chunks, and ensuring teens get adequate sleep, nutrition, and exercise. A counselor at a private tutoring center highlights balancing study with rest, noting that late-night cramming often backfires and worsens anxiety and memory. Encouraging non-academic routines—such as walking, mindfulness, or light stretching—helps reduce anxiety symptoms.
Sleep and nutrition are vital to mental performance under pressure. A clinical lead cautions that skipping meals or relying on energy drinks can worsen brain chemistry and anxiety. Thai health professionals advocate nutritious snacks on campuses during exams and urge schools to limit energy drink marketing and sponsorships.
If distress persists despite self-help strategies and school support, professional help is warranted. Parents should seek guidance if a child shows drastic behavior changes, isolation, or expressions of hopelessness. In Thailand, options include school mental health staff, provincial mental health hotlines, and clinical evaluations at public hospitals or community clinics. National initiatives are expanding in-school programs and piloting a High School Mental Health Action Checklist to help teachers identify and manage student distress.
Exam stress reflects Thai educational structures and cultural expectations. Academic success has long signified family status and social mobility. While the Buddhist value of khanti (patience) remains relevant, today’s pressures require a balance between effort and self-compassion. A representative from Thailand’s parents’ association cautions against equating success solely with test scores, arguing that a narrow focus on outcomes can erode resilience and well-being.
Looking ahead, experts advocate for a holistic approach in Thai education that includes mental health literacy, de-stigmatization, peer support, and deeper parental involvement. International comparisons suggest that integrating social-emotional learning and mental health skills improves both academics and well-being. Early pilot programs in Thailand show promise: when students and parents are trained together in stress management and communication, severe distress declines and satisfaction with schooling rises.
As Thai teens navigate another intense exam season, creating an environment where they can openly discuss anxieties is crucial—not only for exam results but for lifelong mental health. Practical guidance for parents includes monitoring warning signs, promoting rest and nutrition, and maintaining open dialogue, while avoiding added pressure. Schools play a vital role by embedding mental health literacy in daily routines and offering accessible counseling channels.
If immediate help is needed, families in Thailand can contact the Department of Mental Health’s hotlines, speak with school counselors, or consult nearest community health clinics. The overarching message is clear: supporting youth mental health is essential for healthy academic and personal development.
In summary, exam stress is best addressed through a collaborative approach that unites families, schools, and health services. By normalizing conversations about mental health, Thai communities can help youths build resilience today and for life.