#Wellbeing

The myth that waking up at 5 a.m. is the golden ticket to success has long dominated social media feeds, with influencers and productivity gurus touting early morning routines as essential for achieving peak performance. However, recent research and expert interviews suggest that true mental strength isn’t about clock-watching at dawn—it’s about aligning daily habits with personal biology, flexible routines, and conscious energy management. For Thai readers searching for practical, science-backed strategies to improve productivity and well-being, the latest findings shine a light on a more balanced, adaptable pathway to success.

Bangkok – “I hate Mondays” has long been a running joke in offices, schools, and coffee shops across Thailand and around the world. But new evidence suggests this sentiment is far more than a punchline: Mondays may actually harm our health in ways that persist long after the workweek begins, escalating the risk for major medical problems and chronic stress. That’s the startling message from groundbreaking research led by the University of Hong Kong and published this week in the Journal of Affective Disorders, which found that people who feel anxious on Mondays experience the highest spikes in stress hormones – with effects that can linger for months.

A growing body of psychological research, backed by both historic wisdom and empirical studies, suggests that the relentless pursuit of happiness could ironically be leading to widespread dissatisfaction. According to recent findings discussed by a renowned psychologist and researchers from Stanford, focusing too much on feeling happy in the moment may actually undermine a more meaningful—and ultimately satisfying—life experience. For Thai readers navigating a society in flux between traditional values and global influences, these insights offer timely lessons for crafting a fulfilling existence.

A growing body of research is shedding light on long-held misunderstandings about female sexual health, debunking myths from urinary tract infections (UTIs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to challenges surrounding menopause. These findings, many led by hospitals and research institutions in Asia, highlight the critical need for education and open discourse—issues that are especially relevant in Thailand, where taboos around sex education and women’s health persist.

In a recent 2024 study by Singapore’s KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), over half of participating women aged 21–45 admitted they could not identify symptoms of common female sexual health conditions, despite acknowledging the importance of awareness and education. Alarmingly, only 43% said they would seek medical help if they encountered such issues. Compounding the problem, a parallel survey of healthcare professionals treating women of reproductive age found that more than 8 out of 10 lacked awareness of screening tools, and only around 1 in 10 felt confident diagnosing or managing female sexual health complaints (CNA Lifestyle).

As July unfolds and Thais begin their annual mid-year escapes, the latest scientific insights suggest that the way we take vacations may matter more than the time or place. While many look forward to a break as a chance to replenish after months of work or study, research highlighted in Psychology Today reveals that not all holidays actually leave us feeling revived. It turns out, how we spend our vacation—and our ability to mentally step away from work—plays a significant role in whether a holiday truly recharges us or merely delivers fleeting relief (psychologytoday.com).

A recent study from the University of Georgia has challenged the long-held belief that more exercise automatically translates to better mental health, revealing that not just the act of exercising, but the context in which it occurs, plays a pivotal role in determining its psychological impact (UGA News). This latest research invites Thai readers to rethink the way society prescribes and participates in physical activity, suggesting important implications for health promotion, education, and community wellness.

As social media influencers continue to spark viral nutrition fads under the banner of “glow-up” – a term capturing the idea of rapid self-improvement – leading dietitians are sounding alarms about potentially harmful dietary trends gaining traction both globally and in Thailand. Based on the latest analysis by Western and Thai-registered dietitians, several popular habits promoted online, from extreme fasting to restrictive eating, are not only unsupported by scientific evidence but could also undermine physical and mental health, especially among young people. Understanding which “glow-up” trends to avoid is now a matter of public awareness as Thailand faces rising rates of diet-related illnesses and mental health challenges.

A renowned trauma therapist has shared two fast, easy-to-do exercises that can help ease anxiety within seconds, promising immediate help for those feeling overwhelmed by stress or nerves. The recommendations come at a time when more Thais are seeking quick, accessible ways to manage their daily mental health—whether nervously anticipating a major presentation at work or dreading a challenging conversation at home. The latest guidance was highlighted on the US “Today” show by a doctor of trauma therapy and author, who stressed both the simplicity and effectiveness of these techniques, making them highly relevant for Thai readers navigating the pressures of modern life (Today.com).

In recent years, the hormone oxytocin has attracted widespread scientific attention for its profound influence on human health and happiness. Emerging research highlights practical, research-backed methods for naturally increasing oxytocin — offering Thais new insights into stress reduction, social connection, and overall well-being.

Often referred to as the “love hormone” or “cuddle chemical,” oxytocin plays a fundamental role not just in childbirth and maternal bonding but in everyday experiences of trust, empathy, and even physical healing. For Thai readers navigating urban stress, close family ties, and a society in transition, understanding how to unlock the benefits of oxytocin has never been more relevant. The latest research, as summarized in a comprehensive Boston Globe feature, explores both the science and practical daily actions anyone can take.

Many people find themselves trapped in a cycle of wondering whether they are “too much” or “not enough”—too sensitive, too quiet, not accomplished enough, not funny enough. Recent research and expert commentary indicate that this persistent sense of emotional limbo is both common and rooted in psychological mechanisms that can be understood and addressed. A recent article published by VegOut Mag captures the inner struggle: after an event or conversation, many people replay their words and actions, second-guessing themselves or feeling like outsiders who can never quite fit in. For Thai readers, who often face strong cultural norms around harmony and social acceptance, these findings have particularly powerful resonance.

A wave of fresh scientific research is highlighting how simple dietary shifts can transform gut health, with nine powerhouse foods earning attention for their profound impact on the digestive system. These findings, echoed in international health news and supported by emerging clinical studies, offer practical insights for Thais interested in holistic wellness and the rising global trend of gut-friendly eating (Times of India, Everyday Health, Verywell Health). These foods—ranging from raspberries to kefir—are already present in many Thai households or are easily adapted to local cuisine, supporting the national move toward preventive health.

The impact of relentless, negative news cycles on mental health has come under fresh scrutiny following new research and expert commentary, highlighting a growing need for healthier ways to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed. Recent analysis published by researchers from Monash University and Flinders University, as reported in ScienceAlert, suggests that while exposure to distressing news is almost unavoidable in contemporary society, engaging with news mindfully may help protect mental health and resilience for individuals in Thailand and worldwide (sciencealert.com).

An eye-opening new investigation is unraveling the hidden layers of the ultra-wealthy’s personal lives, revealing that vast fortunes do not necessarily insulate individuals from emotional challenges or problematic behaviors. Friends, aides, and associates of billionaires and multimillionaires have disclosed a tapestry of secrets, painting a picture of high drama, emotional volatility, and even compulsive hoarding behind closed doors—offering a rare look at the underbelly of luxury living.

This research, highlighted in a recent Daily Mail report, compiles anecdotes from those intimately familiar with the ultra-rich. Among the revelations: explosive tantrums triggered by minor inconveniences, elaborate rituals of control over staff, and shocking hoarding episodes where designer goods and prized objects accumulate in chaotic, unsanitary piles. Such accounts fundamentally challenge the public’s common perception of wealthy lifestyles as effortless, orderly, or immune to everyday anxieties.

A newly published international study has confirmed what many Thais may intuitively sense—feeling good can actually help us remember more, even when the subject matter itself is boring or meaningless. In ground-breaking research led by scientists from Hangzhou Normal University and Nanjing Normal University, the team demonstrated that positive emotions during learning measurably enhance our ability to recall information, offering potential life-changing applications for students, teachers, and anyone aiming to boost brain power (Neuroscience News; MedicalXpress; News-Medical).

Amid an alarming surge in job cuts across the United States in 2025, a new wave of layoff anxiety is sweeping through the workforce, driving Americans to work harder but ultimately burning out faster, experts warn. A recent CNBC report highlights the unprecedented level of job insecurity: nearly 700,000 layoffs were reported in the first five months of the year—an 80% spike compared to the same period in 2024—leaving 46% of workers worried about their future employment and exposing stark psychological tolls (CNBC).

Malaysia has been named the happiest country in Asia, a development that has caught the attention of not only regional policymakers but also retailers across the continent. The findings, as highlighted in a report by The Robin Report, signal promising opportunities for businesses and suggest pathways for other countries, including Thailand, to boost well-being and consumer confidence within their borders (therobinreport.com).

The announcement is particularly significant for Thailand, a nation striving to balance post-pandemic economic recovery with quality-of-life improvements. With happiness increasingly linked to economic vitality and retail growth, Malaysia’s status offers a compelling case study in how consumer sentiment shapes spending patterns, community engagement, and national development.

For many Thais, it’s a familiar refrain heard from elders: “Each year passes faster than the last.” This shared experience, long chalked up to nostalgia or busy lives, now has new scientific backing. Recent research published in the journal European Review and summarized in an Earth.com article explains why our perception of time truly seems to speed up with age, lending insight into both the mechanics of the brain and possible ways for everyone, young or old, to reclaim a sense of fuller, richer days (Earth.com).

As high-intensity interval training (HIIT) has become a staple for fitness enthusiasts seeking quick results, a new wave of awareness is questioning whether it’s truly the best route for everyone—especially those who simply don’t enjoy it. Recent experiences and scientific studies are converging to highlight the nuanced benefits of swapping sweat-drenched HIIT sessions for less intense, more enjoyable forms of cardio, calling into question whether maximal exertion is always necessary for optimal fitness gains. This shift in understanding is especially significant for Thai readers, as it reflects an ongoing dialogue about sustainable health, fitness, and the role of pleasure in an active lifestyle.

Talking to pets as if they are people may do more than entertain our furry friends — it could reflect and even strengthen vital emotional skills for their human companions, according to emerging research and expert analysis. As pet ownership grows steadily in Thailand and worldwide, scientists and psychologists are delving deeper into the social and psychological benefits of treating pets as conversational partners, with recent studies suggesting that these interactions are closely linked to seven distinct emotional strengths.

As Thailand’s society becomes increasingly aware of mental health challenges, especially post-pandemic, many are grappling with the often unseen social costs of depression. Recent global research and lived experiences—like that described in Slate’s recent advice column about a decade-old friendship tested by one friend’s withdrawal and history of depression—highlight a growing dilemma: when a person’s struggle with a common illness like depression begins to erode the very bonds that once provided support and joy, what are friends to do? slate.com

A new nationwide study reveals that pastors, traditionally seen as frontline counselors in their communities, are now providing less counseling than a decade ago, have fewer resources for referrals, and are increasingly isolated with their own struggles. The Lifeway Research survey, involving over 1,500 evangelical and Black Protestant pastors across the United States, underscores an important shift in how spiritual leaders participate in mental health care—a development with broad implications for faith communities worldwide, including Thailand.

A growing wave of psychological research and theory is turning the spotlight away from the individual mind and highlighting the profound impact of relationships on mental health. New arguments from the field of relational psychology challenge the traditional view that mental disorders are rooted solely within the individual, calling for a social and interpersonal understanding of mental wellbeing—a perspective with sweeping implications for how Thai society approaches mental health care.

In a world where relationships are under increasing strain, new research is spotlighting six small but powerfully effective daily habits linked to happier, longer-lasting marriages—findings that resonate with couples across Thailand as much as anywhere else. Compiled from the latest peer-reviewed studies, these rituals promise to help couples enjoy not only marital stability but also greater day-to-day happiness, all without expensive retreats or couples therapy marathons. The science suggests that, like any good recipe for longevity, it’s the daily consistency and intent that make the difference.

A brief, guided breathing exercise can significantly improve our ability to regulate negative emotions, according to a new study published in the journal Psychological Reports. The findings suggest that as little as three minutes of “box breathing”—a simple technique involving slow, measured inhales, holds, and exhales—may offer a fast, accessible strategy to calm the mind, reduce agitation, and enhance self-control in the face of everyday stress.

Emotional regulation lies at the heart of mental wellbeing, influencing how we cope with life’s inevitable challenges. For many Thais, navigating emotional ups and downs is an essential part of maintaining family harmony, workplace productivity, and community life. The latest research offers hope for those seeking alternatives to medication or long-term therapy by demonstrating that even short, intentional breathing sessions can have immediate and measurable impacts on mood and resilience.