A growing body of research shows social media is taking a toll on young people’s mental health worldwide, including in Thailand. Experts link rising depression, anxiety, and other distress signals to digital engagement. Regulators, parents, and schools are being urged to act now with stronger media literacy, healthier online habits, and safer platform design.
The surge in social media use among children and teens is reshaping childhood experiences and introducing new psychological risks. A recent briefing by the Kids Code Coalition highlighted in national media coverage, where advocates called for warning labels on social apps similar to tobacco or alcohol disclosures. The coalition points to an uptick in mental health crises that coincides with greater online activity, especially after the pandemic.
In schools, educators report behavioral challenges appearing at younger ages. A Bangkok-area superintendent noted that problems once seen in high school are now visible in middle school, and middle-school issues are emerging even earlier. The message is clear: digital stress is affecting social and emotional development long before adolescence.
The coalition’s recommendations emphasize balanced media use, open family dialogue, and school-based media literacy. Calls for platform-wide health warnings have faced resistance from major technology companies, underscoring the need for practical, implementable policies and education.
Scientific studies reinforce these concerns. A 2025 study found a strong link between social media use and adolescent loneliness, with hopelessness serving as a key mediator. A broad review of internet addiction underscores a two-decade rise in digital dependency, now recognized as a major public health issue. A Pew Research Center survey reported that many teens in the United States view social media as harmful to youth mental health, a sentiment echoed by major media outlets.
In Thailand, local research mirrors international findings. A 2024 analysis tied social media to increased anxiety among Thai youths, with constant connectivity and the drive for online validation contributing to emotional distress. Another study linked smartphone use and low self-esteem to higher depression and stress among secondary students. With more than 85% of Thai youth online, families and educators face unique challenges in guiding healthy digital behavior.
Thai experts point to cultural and academic pressures that intensify the digital burden. A Bangkok public health official noted that social media adds a layer of peer judgment and cyberbullying to already high expectations from family and society. Yet, social networks can also offer positive connection when used responsibly, and resilience-building remains a key focus in education.
Globally, many countries are piloting forums and programs to balance screen time with child development. Western schools increasingly teach media literacy—critical evaluation of online content, recognition of cyberbullying, and self-care practices. Thailand can adapt these lessons to fit local contexts, emphasizing parental involvement, school-based education, and community dialogue.
The Thai cultural concept of jai yen — maintaining calm and harmony — can clash with the fast, competitive online environment. While digital spaces can foster new communities, they also risks of cyberbullying and addictive content. Building resilience, media discernment, and supportive local networks helps align digital life with traditional values.
Looking ahead, digital-native generations will remain deeply connected to technology. Thailand’s success in safeguarding youth mental health will depend on expanding access to counseling, updating digital literacy education, and strengthening protections for vulnerable youth. Parents, educators, and policymakers must collaborate to guide young people through their digital lives.
Practical steps for Thai families and schools include monitoring online activity with sensitivity, keeping communication channels open, and teaching youths to recognize the signs of cyberbullying and social comparison. If warning signs appear—withdrawal, mood changes, declining school performance, or excessive dependence on online approval—seek professional help. National health and education authorities should support family-centered interventions and community dialogue alongside digital-updating policies.
For Thai youth, setting simple routines can help mitigate digital overload. Limiting screen time before bed, following well-being-focused content, and taking regular breaks from devices support healthier habits. Schools can integrate mindfulness and media-management into health education to foster balanced digital citizenship.
In conclusion, a convergence of global evidence and local experience points to an urgent need for coordinated action. As Thailand’s digital landscape evolves, protecting young people’s mental health will require proactive collaboration among families, schools, policymakers, and the youths themselves.