#Identity

Fresh research is shedding light on the surprising causes behind higher rates of depression among vegans—a phenomenon with ripples beyond just dietary choices, impacting careers, relationships, and the broader landscape of modern identity. While past debates have focused on nutrition and social pressures, new evidence points to deeper psychological roots that are relevant not just to plant-based eaters, but to anyone who closely identifies with rigid belief systems.

The recent discussion, sparked by a widely shared article in VegOut Magazine, captured the attention of global readers—including many who weren’t vegan at all. The piece, authored by a psychological observer based in Singapore, delved into research showing elevated rates of depression and anxiety in vegan populations. What emerged, however, was a hidden pattern that extended well beyond diet: a modern epidemic of “identity fusion,” where personal sense of self merges completely with group ideology, making beliefs feel inseparable from one’s core identity (VegOut Magazine).

A new wave of psychological research is challenging the popular wisdom embedded in age-old proverbs like “Know thyself,” suggesting that our quest for self-knowledge may be less straightforward—and far more limited—than traditionally believed. Recent findings indicate that humans are much less adept at truly knowing themselves than they think, and that an overzealous pursuit of inner truth can actually hinder personal growth rather than foster it. These insights, which have significant implications for Thai society amid a culture increasingly oriented around self-understanding and personal development, call for a more humble, flexible attitude toward the self.

How many times have you ended your day wondering why accomplishing your personal goals—staying healthy, spending quality time with family, advancing at work—felt like a losing battle against time and old habits? According to the latest neuroscience research shared by a leading professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Communication Neuroscience Lab, the answer may be less about willpower and more about how our brains calculate the value of every daily choice we make. Her insights, summarized in a new book and recently featured by the Next Big Idea Club, are reshaping how experts and the public alike understand decision-making and personal growth (nextbigideaclub.com).

Thai parents are increasingly seeking inspiration from global trends when it comes to naming their children, with a growing number looking for names that embody positive energy and optimism. A recent feature by The Times of India has highlighted a delightful trend: baby girl names that mean “sunshine,” sparking interest among parents worldwide, including in Thailand, who are searching for names symbolizing warmth, happiness, and hope for their daughters’ futures (Times of India).