Thammasat University tackles student mental health crisis with bold 2025 plan

Thammasat University is making student mental health a top priority for 2025-2026. The move comes as surveys reveal rising stress and emotional struggles among young people. Officials describe the current era as The Burnout Society, where academic pressure and external challenges weigh heavily on students.

A 2022 survey by TUN-HPN found that 40% of 9,050 students face frequent stress. Nearly one in three reported persistent sadness, while 12% had self-harmed and 4% had considered suicide. Another 4.3% received psychiatric diagnoses.

The university’s mental health system now offers individual counselling, a 24/7 call centre, psychiatric consultations, telemedicine, and medication support. Each year, over 6,000 of the university’s 43,000 students seek these services. Three key issues affect student well-being: adjusting to university life, relationship struggles, and the pressure to meet academic expectations. Chronic stress from fierce competition leaves many exhausted. Outside factors—like the threat of war and rapid technological shifts—add to the sense of life feeling overwhelming.

Thammasat’s new push aims to normalise mental health care and ensure all students know where to find help. The initiative is part of the university’s Quick Big Win strategy for the coming year. With thousands already using the services, officials hope to reduce stigma and provide timely support.