A Warm Family: The Beginning of Lasting Mental Well-Being
Created By RISC | 2 days ago
Last modified date : 2 days ago
Have you noticed how many people around us have been struggling with insomnia, stress, or even depression in recent years?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 970 million people worldwide—or roughly 1 in 8—are living with mental health conditions. Among adolescents aged 10–19, who make up one-sixth of the global population, as many as 1 in 7 (14.3%) experience mental health issues, many of whom may not even realize it or have access to proper care.
In Thailand, data from the Department of Mental Health’s “Mental Health Check-in” (2020–2024) shows that 8.04% of people reported high stress, 9.47% were at risk of depression, and 5.39% were at risk of suicide.
The figures are even more concerning among Thai adolescents under 20 — 24.83% reported high stress, 29.51% were at risk of depression, and 20.35% were at risk of suicide. These rates are three to four times higher than those in other age groups.
So, how can we improve our mental health? And where should we begin? Let’s look at two research studies that highlight the crucial role of family relationships in fostering mental well-being.
The first study, conducted by Bian, Y., Jin, K., and Zhang, Y. in China, analyzed data from 90,023 participants across multiple countries. It revealed that families with higher levels of cohesion and mutual support had a significantly lower likelihood of depression.
Another study, by An, J., Zhu, X., Shi, Z., and An, J., also from China, explored the impact of perceived family support. The findings showed that it’s not merely about having a family — what truly matters is feeling supported by one’s family. When family members can openly share their concerns and communicate effectively, it enhances emotional well-being, strengthens social connections, and even contributes to better physical health.
These findings echo many other studies affirming that family is the foundation and essential space for building emotional resilience and supporting the mental well-being of adolescents — and of every member in the household.
At Mulberry Grove The Forestias, this belief is embedded in its design philosophy: “Good mental health begins at home.”
Each home is thoughtfully crafted to nurture connection and visibility among family members, whether on the same floor or across different levels, allowing everyone to see and engage with one another naturally throughout the day. Shared spaces are designed to encourage interaction and meaningful conversations — warm, inviting areas where families can relax, bond, and enjoy quality time together.
These moments of togetherness strengthen relationships, build positive emotions, and promote both mental and emotional well-being — truly making home the starting point for a happier, healthier life.
Story by Dr. Sarigga Pongsuwan, Vice President of RISC and Head of Happiness Science Hub
References by
Hfocus. (2024, มีนาคม). ชื่อบทความ. Hfocus. สืบค้นเมื่อ 3 เดือนตุลาคม จาก https://www.hfocus.org/content/2024/03/30088
Hfocus. (2025, กรกฎาคม). ชื่อบทความ. Hfocus. สืบค้นเมื่อ 3 เดือนตุลาคม จาก https://www.hfocus.org/content/2025/07/34568
An, J., Zhu, X., Shi, Z., & An, J. (2024). A serial mediating effect of perceived family support on psychological well-being. [BMC Public Health], [2024], DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-024-18476-z
Bian, Y., Jin, K., & Zhang, Y. (2024). The association between family cohesion and depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. [PubMed, National Library of Medicine], [2024], DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.138