#Wellbeing

If you often feel like your intense workouts at the gym seem to last forever, you are not alone—and science may finally have an explanation. According to a new study published in the journal Brain and Behaviour and reported by The Guardian, pushing yourself hard during exercise can cause a “time warp” effect that makes your workout feel subjectively longer than it actually is. This finding could have important implications for anyone hoping to improve their fitness—or simply survive a particularly sweaty spin class—with researchers suggesting that our perception of time may be heavily influenced by the discomfort and effort of the activity itself (The Guardian).

A new wave of research challenges long-held beliefs about stress, revealing that not all stress is harmful and that the impact of stress—and how we should respond—depends on far more than we once imagined. As Thais increasingly grapple with work, family, and digital pressures, the latest scientific insights offer fresh hope—and practical strategies—for managing daily life (The Guardian).

Stress has long been cast as the villain in our health narratives, blamed for physical ills, emotional burnout, and even social collapse. Yet emerging evidence shows the story is far more nuanced, with researchers revealing that not only is some stress “good”—it’s necessary for human growth and resilience. For Thai readers bombarded by news of a ‘stress epidemic’, this signals a needed shift in public understanding and policy.

A new report from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that depression is now more common among Americans than ever before, with treatment rates falling short despite growing awareness—a development that brings important lessons for health policymakers and families across Thailand. The report, based on data from 2021 to 2023, found that over one in eight Americans aged 12 and older have experienced depression recently, almost double the rate reported just a decade ago. Yet, only about 40% of those affected pursued counseling or therapy for their symptoms, highlighting a persistent gap between need and access to care (CNN).

A new wave of stressed-out spending, dubbed “doom spending,” is sweeping across generations, promising quick emotional relief but bringing longer-term pain for wallets and mental wellbeing alike. The phenomenon has sparked attention from psychologists and financial experts who warn that, despite its appeal, impulsive retail therapy in response to stress or pessimism about the future is not the stress-buster many hope it will be. With Thailand and other nations facing economic uncertainties — from global inflation to job insecurity — this trend offers a timely cautionary tale for Thai readers navigating their own financial decisions and stress management strategies.

A growing number of people worldwide are opening up about their struggles not just with mental health, but with the very professionals meant to help them. Recent viral discussions, including a BuzzFeed article compiling stories of “terrible therapists,” are shining a harsh spotlight on problematic practices within the mental health industry (BuzzFeed). These personal accounts — ranging from therapists giving unsolicited advice to crossing ethical boundaries — are prompting experts and individuals alike to ask: how can we make sure mental health care is genuinely helpful, not harmful?

In times of stress and uncertainty, a rising tide of evidence is showing that the simple act of helping others—through volunteering—can be a powerful medicine for one’s own mental health. Recent research and expert commentary highlight that those who dedicate time to volunteering not only improve their communities but also experience significant personal benefits, including lower rates of depression, anxiety, and loneliness, as well as greater feelings of happiness and life satisfaction. With Mental Health Month recently observed, this growing body of research encourages Thais to look beyond traditional forms of self-care and discover how giving back is, in essence, giving to oneself.

As stress becomes a pervasive part of modern life, from managing finances to juggling work and personal responsibilities, the need for finding balance extends to our dietary habits as well. Renowned dietitian Kylie Sakaida, a popular figure on TikTok with 2 million followers and the author of the cookbook “So Easy So Good,” champions the practice of “stress-free eating.” This approach aims to lighten the mental load that often accompanies meal planning and consumption.

Recent research highlights a worrying connection between low magnesium levels and an increased risk of chronic degenerative diseases. A 2024 study published in the European Journal of Nutrition points to a potential link between magnesium deficiency and conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Conducted by researchers in Australia, the study examined the blood samples of 172 middle-aged adults, evaluating their magnesium levels and markers of DNA damage.

In an increasingly turbulent world, stress is becoming an everyday challenge for many people, with recent studies revealing a marked spike in anxiety levels among Americans in 2025. Contributing factors vary widely, from massive layoffs of federal employees to adverse weather conditions impacting communities. A survey conducted by the mental health platform Modern Health found that three-quarters of U.S. workers felt despondent from current political and global developments. Dr. Neha Chaudhary, a seasoned psychiatrist, noted that many of her patients cannot recall a time of such significant stress and uncertainty.

In a world increasingly fraught with stressors, a growing number of experts advocate for micro-meditations as an effective remedy CNBC. With stress levels surging due to economic uncertainties and extreme weather conditions, according to a recent March study, people seek ways to calm their rising anxiety. Dr. Esther Sternberg, a prominent physician and author, emphasizes that micro-meditations can be performed anywhere and require minimal time commitment, offering immediate relief.

This growing stress mirrors the sentiments expressed by many of Dr. Neha Chaudhary’s patients, who are grappling with unprecedented levels of stress. Chaudhary, a respected psychiatrist, underscored the necessity of integrating stress-reduction techniques into daily life, particularly as political and economic tensions rise, with recent global tariffs announced by President Donald Trump adding to financial insecurities.

In the warm, humid air of Thai gardens, a delicate fragrance wafts at dusk—a scent locals immediately associate with the creamy-yellow blossoms of Lamduan (ลำดวน), the Melodorum fruticosum Lour. Far more than just a garden beauty, Lamduan has, for centuries, occupied a prominent place in the cultural, spiritual, and healing landscapes of Southeast Asia. As modern science takes a closer look, new insights are emerging about its medicinal promises—a testament to the enduring dialogue between tradition and the rigor of laboratory research.

As Thailand welcomes spring, with vibrant cherry blossoms and other exquisite flowers adorning our landscapes, new research underscores a fascinating aspect of these natural beauties: they have tangible health benefits. Not just a feast for the eyes, flowers might be a simple and effective part of stress relief strategies. Recent studies, notably one conducted in 2020, highlight that even viewing an image of a flower can significantly reduce stress by lowering negative emotions, decreasing blood pressure, and diminishing cortisol levels, the hormone primarily responsible for stress.

As we navigate a world increasingly focused on wellness, many find themselves seeking manageable yet effective ways to enhance their health without overhauling their routines. Among recent wellness trends, several health habits stand out as both practical and beneficial, particularly in the context of rising food costs and a growing awareness of holistic health. This piece explores actionable health strategies that can seamlessly integrate into our daily lives, drawn from a comprehensive article by Kaitlin Reilly on Yahoo Lifestyle, designed to help you enjoy an invigorating and healthful week.