Thailand’s facing a double dose of trouble—more people are battling mental health issues than ever before, while fewer babies are being born. Experts say it’s a social time bomb.
The newly released Thai Health Report 2025, launched yesterday, July 17, by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and Mahidol University, paints a worrying picture of the nation’s emotional and demographic well-being.
One of the most alarming findings? 13.4 million Thais have experienced mental health issues or psychiatric disorders. Even more disturbing is the steady rise in suicide rates, particularly among young people aged 15–29.
This vulnerable age group is under mounting pressure from academic demands, social media-fuelled FOMO, domestic violence, and crushing societal expectations. The report warns of rising levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and suicide risk.
The outlook isn’t much brighter for those approaching retirement.
Thais aged 45–59 reported the lowest levels of happiness in the study, signalling a silent mental health crisis among pre-elderly citizens. While mental health literacy has improved—one-third of Thais now have high awareness—deep-rooted stigma remains. Suicide is still widely misunderstood as a sign of weakness.
The report’s special feature, titled Falling Birth Rates: How to Adjust and Cope, reveals another serious concern: Thailand’s birth rate is at its lowest point in history. According to Mahidol University’s Dr Bhubate Samutachak, economic stress, shifting gender roles, career priorities, and lifestyle changes are all major contributors.
“Even with diverse pro-birth measures in other countries – from childcare support and extended maternity leave to financial subsidies – they have largely failed to increase the desire for children,” he said.
The report urges Thailand to rethink its long-term strategy by investing in quality of life for existing children, creating a supportive environment for youth, redefining ageing, and extending the retirement age to prepare for a rapidly greying society, reported The Nation.
It also highlights 10 other pressing public health and social issues—from e-cigarettes and debt to bus safety and industrial waste.
Dr Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, ThaiHealth’s manager, said the report is designed to spark social dialogue and guide policymaking.
“This data should drive real change in how we promote health and plan for Thailand’s future.”
If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help.
The story Thailand hit by mental health spike and baby bust as seen on Thaiger News.
