The cost
of disconnection

With more than 80% of Thais feeling lonely, mindful listening is an essential remedy.

Humans are inherently social.

Loneliness occurs when bonding needs are not met, ranging from mild to clinical levels.

Study of 864 Thais
(ages between 18 and 75):

  • 18% extremely lonely
  • 65% moderately lonely
  • 17% mildly lonely

(Conducted by Assoc Prof Somboon Jarukasemthawee of Chulalongkorn University)

Negative effects of loneliness

  • Loneliness potentially damages health as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
  • It is a silent condition that can lead to anxiety and depression.

Who suffers loneliness

It affects all demographics and education levels.

Urban residents experience it more than rural ones.

Artificial intelligence
and loneliness

20% of Thais say AI understands them better than family.

"It should be zero. It means that parents aren’t doing their jobs as well as AI," said Assoc Prof Somboon.

Deep connections

To combat loneliness, deep connections matter more than wealth, fame or many acquaintances.

Dating and marriage are not the antidotes.

"Close relationships are marked by people we can turn to in distress. Our study confirms high social support reduces loneliness,"

said Sorrayut Ratanapojnard, co-founder of JitArsa Bank.

Mindful listening

Loneliness also grows from lack of mindful listening:

  • Parents give advice instead of listening
  • Working adults support others but receive little care
  • Seniors are neglected by busy families

Listening is not just hearing, it means being fully engaged and connecting with others on a deeper level.

Instead of trying to change others, focus on truly listening.

Listening also recognises the other’s self-worth.

It helps others and also allows us to gain perspective on our own struggles.