#Depression

A new wave of mental health awareness is spotlighting a phenomenon some describe as “depression attacks” — sudden surges of despair and emotional paralysis. While anxiety often dominates headlines, experts say these episodes are a distinct and impactful experience. A clinical psychologist notes that depression attacks require immediate awareness and support, even though they are not a formal diagnosis like major depressive disorder.

In Thailand, conversations about mental health are shaped by cultural norms and socioeconomic realities. Recognizing depression attacks can empower individuals to seek help and discuss wellbeing openly. While not clinically diagnosed, these episodes typically present as sharp bursts of intense sadness and helplessness, according to mental health professionals. A licensed counselor adds that the onset can be abrupt, yet underlying symptoms are often amplified by stress.

With the spotlight often focused on anxiety attacks, many might overlook the equally impactful but lesser-known “depression attack.” Highlighted recently by HuffPost’s report, this continues to be a growing concern in mental health discussions. Unlike the clinical diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD), depression attacks describe a sudden, intense wave of despair and emotional paralysis, as explained by clinical psychologist Comfort Shields, indicating an immediate need for awareness and understanding.

In Thailand, where mental health often intertwines deeply with cultural taboos and socioeconomic challenges, understanding this phenomenon can empower individuals to seek support and acknowledge their mental wellbeing. While depression attacks aren’t clinically diagnosed, they manifest through sharp “attacks” of severe sadness and feelings of helplessness, unlike the prolonged nature of MDD. Monica Amorosi, a licensed mental health counselor, suggests these attacks may seem sudden but are often the result of intensified symptoms due to various triggers.

A new study released in March 2025 links being a night owl to a higher risk of depression compared with early risers. The research points to sleep quality, mindfulness practices, and daily choices as key factors driving this association. For Thailand, where urban living and heavy digital engagement influence daily rhythms, the findings have clear local relevance.

According to a senior clinician, modifiable factors such as sleep routines and physical activity can reduce depression risk. The emphasis on prevention is timely as global rates of depression rise, affecting young adults in particular. Another expert notes that an “always-on” culture—with constant connectivity and social media—can erode sleep, especially among adolescents and young adults.

In recent scientific developments, night owls—people who naturally stay up late—have been found to have an elevated risk of depression compared to their early-rising counterparts. According to a study published in March 2025, factors such as sleep quality, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle choices play significant roles in this increased risk. This emerging research holds particular relevance for Thailand, where the impact of urban lifestyles and technological engagement contributes to shifting sleep patterns.

A major UK study is probing the kynurenine pathway to explain why teenage girls show higher depression rates than boys. The research contributes to a global understanding of depression that affects hundreds of millions worldwide.

Adolescence remains a pivotal period for mental health. The kynurenine pathway transforms the amino acid tryptophan into compounds that can protect or harm neurons. The study examines how this process differs by sex in adolescence and what it means for risk and resilience. For Thai adolescents, rising awareness, academic pressures, and evolving gender norms make these insights especially pertinent.

A growing body of research shows that when people sleep can influence mood and mental health. A study from the University of Surrey suggests that night owls—those who prefer late bedtimes—may have a higher risk of depression compared with early risers. The findings point to sleep quality, mindfulness, and lifestyle choices as key mediators.

For Thai readers, this link is particularly relevant. Bangkok’s urban pace, long work hours, and constant device use can push many toward later bedtimes. Night-owl tendencies are common in fast-moving cities, but irregular sleep schedules may carry mental health costs if routines don’t support rest.

In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at King’s College London, a brain pathway known as the kynurenine pathway is being explored for its potential role in the higher rates of depression observed in teenage girls compared to boys. As reported by Medical Xpress, this study is pivotal in understanding the underlying biological factors that contribute to depression, which affects approximately 280 million people globally.

The significance of this study lies in its focus on adolescence—a developmental stage marked by significant neurological and psychological changes. The research examines how the kynurenine pathway, which processes the amino acid tryptophan into either neuroprotective or neurotoxic chemicals, differs in its operation between male and female adolescents. This research is particularly poignant for Thai adolescents, as mental health awareness grows within the country amidst shifting cultural norms and increasing academic pressures.