#Buddhiststudies

A wave of recent scientific research is challenging the common perception that meditation and mindfulness are universally beneficial, ignoring their potential to cause significant harm for some practitioners. While meditation, rooted in centuries-old Buddhist traditions and widely promoted in modern Thailand as a stress-relieving and wellness-enhancing practice, reports now highlight overlooked adverse effects—including anxiety, depression, dissociation, and even psychotic episodes. As mindfulness gains popularity across Thai schools, corporate offices, and healthcare settings, these revelations carry urgent implications for local practitioners, educators, and policymakers.

A wave of recent research is calling into question the idea that meditation is universally beneficial. While mindfulness has deep roots in Buddhist traditions and is widely promoted in modern Thailand as a tool for stress relief and wellbeing, new findings show potential adverse effects for some practitioners. Reports point to anxiety, depression, dissociation, and even psychotic symptoms in rare cases. As mindfulness expands into Thai schools, workplaces, and healthcare, these findings carry important implications for teachers, administrators, and policymakers.