A landmark study from the University of Edinburgh shows that children who struggle to regulate their emotions by age seven face a higher risk of anxiety and depression in adolescence. An analysis of nearly 19,000 participants found that early emotional dysregulation predicts later internalizing problems, such as sadness, worry, and fear. The research underscores the importance of teaching emotional coping skills in childhood, with clear implications for parents and educators in Thailand and beyond.
In a time when youth mental health challenges are rising globally, these findings could influence how Thai society approaches children’s emotional well-being. Global estimates indicate that about one in five adolescents experience anxiety disorders, and many also face depression during the teen years. In Thailand, public health officials are increasingly concerned about rising youth depression and suicide rates, often tied to academic pressure, social media, and fragile family structures. Thailand’s public health authorities note the same urgent need for preventive strategies.
The Edinburgh study used data from the Millennium Cohort Study, tracking UK children born between 2000 and 2002. Researchers assessed emotional regulation at age seven by looking for mood swings, overexcitability, and frequent frustration. They followed the same participants through ages eleven, fourteen, and seventeen, adjusting for early mental health status and family background. The results show that early regulation difficulties are a strong predictor of later internalizing problems, regardless of prior mental health history.
The link between early emotion regulation challenges and later anxiety or depression remained robust through adolescence. The study’s lead author emphasized that fostering emotion regulation in early childhood could mitigate later mental health issues. This perspective aligns with a broader consensus that early prevention, not just treatment, shapes better long-term outcomes.
A representative from the Medical Research Foundation highlighted the shift from treatment to prevention. By identifying early factors that increase vulnerability to mental health problems, the study supports targeted interventions in childhood that can alter life trajectories.
The findings have clear relevance for Thailand, where schools and families face ongoing reform and mental health initiatives. Thai educational psychologists have long observed that rigid classroom environments and disciplinary approaches can heighten emotional stress, limiting children’s willingness to express difficult feelings. Untreated emotional issues may evolve into anxiety, depression, or self-harm as children progress through school.
International research consistently supports early emotional education. Teaching coping strategies—such as recognizing emotions, practicing relaxation, and seeking social support—boosts resilience and lowers later mental health risk. In Thailand, life-skills programs focusing on emotional regulation have been piloted in primary schools, but adoption varies by region.
Thai health authorities report that about 10% of adolescents experience anxiety or depression, a rate that rose after COVID-19 disruptions. Stigma around mental health often leads families to prefer disciplinary or avoidance strategies over supportive help.
Experts urge early intervention beginning in the first years of primary school. Training teachers, clinicians, and parents to help children develop emotion regulation skills should become a routine part of education. This approach fits with Thailand’s ongoing educational reform and public health strategies, which aim to strengthen mental health support in schools and communities. Practical steps include integrating mindfulness and emotional regulation activities into class plans, offering structured play therapies, and promoting campaigns to destigmatize seeking help.
Cultural nuances matter in Thailand. Thai concepts like kreng jai (consideration) and jai yen (cool heart) can foster mutual respect but may hinder open discussion of distress. Interventions should respect these values while empowering children to seek help and build resilience.
Going forward, collaboration between the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Education, schools, and community organizations will be essential. Expanding teacher and parent training in emotional support, and implementing evidence-based life-skills curricula nationwide, can strengthen prevention. Public awareness campaigns about the long-term importance of emotional health are also needed.
For parents and caregivers in Thailand, immediate steps are practical: encourage open conversations about emotions at home, model calm responses to frustration, and nurture strong adult–child relationships. Normalize seeking help from counselors or mental health services as a responsible, proactive choice.
Experts emphasize that mental health is fundamental to thriving in a rapidly changing society. Enabling children to manage their emotions is not just about individual happiness; it strengthens the health and vitality of the entire community.
The study’s lessons point to actionable actions for Thailand. By acting early—fostering emotional literacy and providing compassionate support—families, schools, and policymakers can help today’s children grow into emotionally healthy, resilient adults.
For guidance on teaching emotional literacy at home, parents can consult resources from international child development organizations and participate in free local workshops. Schools and administrators are encouraged to connect with national mental health agencies for training resources and to partner with universities for professional development.
In conclusion, prioritizing emotional skill development in children is a practical, evidence-based way to reduce anxiety and depression later in life. Creating supportive environments—in schools, homes, and communities—will yield lasting benefits for individuals and Thai society.