Recent data from the Department of Mental Health (Ministry of Public Health, Thailand) revealed that between 2020 and 2024, over 8% of Thais experienced high levels of stress, nearly 10% were at risk of depression, and more than 5% faced the risk of suicide. Alarmingly, the rates were significantly higher among Thai youth under the age of 20. Moreover, in 2024, Thailand recorded an average of 42 incidents of violence per day—most cases linked to drug use and mental health issues. Addressing Mental Health issues has thus become a key issue for Thailand, as exemplified by the Cabinet's declaration of May as 'Mind Month,' a campaign aimed at raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health.
Further building on the importance of mental health, the Department of Mental Health under the Ministry of Public Health hosted in early July 2025 the 24th Annual International Mental Health Conference in Bangkok. Themed 'Mental Health for a Gentle Society,' the event brought together experts, policymakers, academics, people with lived experience and global partners to address the growing mental health crisis.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health, acknowledged the gravity of these challenges. He emphasized the government's commitment to placing mental health at the forefront of the national agenda, recognizing the need for comprehensive strategies to address depression, stress, and violence.
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Opening session of the 24th Annual Mental Health Conference with Ms. Saima Wazed, WHO South East Asia Regional Director and Mr. Somsak Thepsutin, Minister of Public Health and high ranking officials from the government and WHO showing the “kid-dee” (positive/good mind) gesture. Photo credit: Department of Mental Health
The conference's theme aligned closely with global developments. At the 78th World Health Assembly in May 2025, WHO Member States adopted a landmark resolution titled 'Fostering Social Connection for Global Health.' This resolution identified loneliness and social isolation as serious health risks, comparable to poor nutrition, physical inactivity, and substance use. It called on nations to implement inclusive policies and strengthen community bonds to combat these issues.
One of the conference’s impactful sessions featured Dr. Jos Vandelaer, WHO Representative to Thailand, who delivered a compelling presentation on social connection and what can be done about it. He described loneliness and isolation as silent crises that affect all age groups but disproportionately impact vulnerable populations such as the elderly and adolescents. According to WHO estimates, a quarter of older adults experience social isolation, while between 5-15% of adolescents report chronic loneliness.
Dr. Vandelaer stressed that social isolation has profound physical health implications. It increases the risk of early death by up to 32%, a rate comparable to smoking or obesity. Isolation is linked to 5% of global dementia cases, raises the risk of cardiovascular disease by 29%, and is associated with a 32% higher risk of stroke. Moreover, it has strong correlations with anxiety, depression, and suicide.
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Dr Jos Vandelaer, WHO Representative to Thailand presenting on “Fostering Social Connection for Global Health” during the 24th Annual International Mental Health Conference, 01 July 2025. Photo credit: Department of Mental Health
In educational settings, loneliness contributes to higher dropout rates, while in the workplace, it results in lower job satisfaction, reduced productivity, and absenteeism. These outcomes collectively diminish the overall quality of life and underscore the need for urgent action.
The rise in loneliness and social isolation can be attributed to a range of factors. The COVID-19 pandemic left lasting effects on social behavior, while increased screen time and social media dependency have altered how people interact. Remote work arrangements and evolving family structures have further contributed to emotional disconnection. Additionally, internal migration for education or employment has left many, particularly the elderly, without adequate support networks.
To address these challenges, the WHO Commission on Social Connection has urged countries to develop evidence-based policies and improve national health and social monitoring systems. On a personal level, individuals are encouraged to nurture relationships with family and friends, engage in hobbies, volunteer, and practice kindness and empathy. These small actions can have a significant impact in reducing isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.
As emphasized in the World Health Assembly Resolution, social connection is not just vital for emotional and mental well-being, it is essential for physical health and longevity.
For more information, readers are invited to visit the WHO Commission on Social Connection at https://www.who.int/groups/commission-on-social-connection